Systems and methods using electrical receptacles for integrated power control, communication and monitoring

ABSTRACT

An electrical receptacle contains contacts, at least one contact for electrical connection to a hot power line and at least one contact for a neutral power line. A controlled switch, such as a TRIAC, is connected in series relationship between the contact and the hot power line. One or more sensors are provided which detect signals of the hot power line and/or the neutral power line. The processor provides activation or deactivation control to the controlled switch in response to the detected signals that are indicative of conditions relative to the first and second contacts.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a Continuation application of Ser. No. 15/659,382filed Jul. 25, 2017, which is a Continuation-In-Part of U.S.non-provisional application Ser. No. 15/274,469, filed Sep. 23, 2016,which claims the benefit of priority to U.S. provisional application No.62/222,904, filed Sep. 24, 2015, U.S. provisional application No.62/366,910, filed Jul. 26, 2016, and U.S. provisional application No.62/377,962, filed Aug. 22, 2016. U.S. non-provisional application Ser.No. 15/659,382 also claims the benefit of priority to U.S. provisionalapplication No. 62/377,962, filed Aug. 22, 2016, U.S. provisionalapplication No. 62/490,527, filed Apr. 26, 2017, and U.S. provisionalapplication No. 62/505,434, filed May 12, 2017. The contents of all ofthese applications are herein incorporated by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This disclosure is related to protection of electrical receptacles, moreparticularly, to tamper resistance, arc fault protection, ground faultprotection, overcurrent protection, and surge suppression for electricalreceptacles and similar devices.

BACKGROUND

Conventional tamper resistive (TR) electrical receptacles employmechanical means such as spring loaded gates, shutters or sliders oneach of the outlet sockets to prevent insertion into the outlets ofobjects other than prongs of electrical plugs. Shutters or gates on eachoutlet socket must be pushed simultaneously to allow prong entry.Preclusion of foreign objects serves to avoid the likelihood of shock,burn or electrocution.

Conventional TR devices, however, have inherent disadvantages. Excessiveforce may be required to open the gates, as the plug blades must beperpendicular to the front face of the outlet and well aligned prior tosimultaneous opening of the shutters. Often an equivalent force must beexerted on each blade in order to open the gates. These receptacles arethus difficult to use when located close to the floor or behind anarticle of furniture, especially for elderly and special needsindividuals. Once the blades pass a tamper resistance gate and makecontact with the sprung outlet terminals, the blades attain power eventhough they may not be completely inserted. Until the blades are fullyremoved past the tamper resistant gates or shutters the blades remainenergized. Exposed blades prior to complete insertion or removal canresult in arcing and electric shock. Moreover, with a live loadconnected with the TR receptacle, an arc fault circuit interrupter(AFCI) may false trip.

Various conventional circuit interruption devices exist for arc faultprotection, ground fault protection, overcurrent protection, and surgesuppression. An arc fault is an unintentional electrical discharge inhousehold wiring characterized by low and erratic voltage/currentconditions that may ignite combustible materials. A parallel currentfault results from direct contact of two wires of opposite polarity. Aground current fault occurs when there is an arc between a wire andground. A series voltage fault occurs when there is an arc across abreak in a single conductor. When a ground or arc fault is detected,power is conventionally terminated on the circuit by an AFCI or groundfault circuit interrupter (GFCI) disconnecting both receptacle outletsand any downstream receptacles.

The devices include transformers that combine magnetic representationsof the current in an analog form. Transformer current sensors arelimited to a fixed current value and time interval. Upon sensed voltageimbalance of greater than a specified level, such as 6 mV, power isinterrupted by electromechanical means, such as solenoid tripping alocking mechanism. The conventional devices lack capability todisconnect outlets individually, independently of other loads connectedto the outlet.

A normal arc can occur when a motor starts or a switch is tripped. Onlycurrent flow imbalance between the hot and neutral conductors isdetected by conventional circuit interrupters. The individual currentline difference is not monitored. Conventional circuit interrupters tripfrequently by false triggers, as they lack adequate capability todistinguish between normal arcing and unwanted arcing. Transformercurrent sensors are limited to a fixed current value and time interval.Upon sensed voltage imbalance of greater than a specified level, such as6 mV, power is interrupted by electromechanical means, such as solenoidtripping a locking mechanism. The conventional devices lack capabilityto disconnect outlets individually, independently of other loadsconnected to the outlet.

As indicated above, it may be advantageous to improve the usability andsafety of existing conventional receptacles. Existing conventional GFCIand AFCI receptacles do not provide detail about a fault. Currents arenot being individually measured. Existing conventional GFCI and AFCIreceptacles do not measure, monitor and control current and voltage, anddo not protect against overcurrent, under voltage or over voltage at theoutlet. It may be advantageous to limit interruption of power toaffected outlets, receptacles or devices only on the circuit, based onthe type and location of the fault. Overcurrent protection at the outletis preferable to the protection provided by the circuit breaker as itwould avoid delay as well as associated voltage losses associated withwire resistance along increasing wire length. Such voltage losses impedethe ability of existing circuit breakers to detect a short circuit at aremote location.

It may be advantageous for overcurrent protection that more effectivelydistinguishes between short circuits, momentary overcurrent and overloadso that false triggering can be avoided. It may be advantageous for areceptacle that can provide local overcurrent protection as well asprotection against arc faults and ground faults.

Conventional existing dual amperage receptacles will supply up to 20 Ato an appliance rated for 15 A and potentially cause an overcurrentevent. It may be advantageous for a dual amperage (e.g. 15 A/20 A)receptacle that restricts amperage supplied to a lower rated plug when alow rated appliance is plugged in.

Some existing standards require the electrician or installer to apply avery conservative load rating when designing the appropriate amperage ofthe system, for example 80% maximum permissibility as a factor ofsafety, e.g. maximum 12 A load for a 15 A circuit breaker. This is dueto some existing receptacles and breakers being slow to respond, and isrequired in order to prevent overheating or electrical fires/faults.

Current measurement accuracy is important for effective ground and arcfault detection as well as overcurrent protection. Conventionalreceptacles are factory calibrated and not re-calibrated by the deviceonce installed. It may be advantageous for continued self-calibration ofreceptacles and outlets.

If the hot and neutral conductors have been incorrectly wired to thereceptacle terminals, electrical equipment plugged into the receptaclecan be damaged. Incorrect wiring can cause short circuits with potentialto harm the user through shock or fire. It may be advantageous to warnthe receptacle installer that the receptacle has been incorrectly wiredand to preclude supply power to the load in such event. It may also beadvantageous that the outlet not be operational if the black wire andwhite wire are incorrectly connected to the opposite terminals.

Conventional outlets lack surge protection features, which are typicallyprovided by power strips and power bars. A power strip is inserted intoa receptacle after which a sensitive electrical device is plugged intoone of the power strip extension receptacles. Use of the power striptends to lead to a false impression that it is safe to insert additionalloads that more than permissible. It may be advantageous for surgeprotection at the electrical receptacle to avoid use of a dedicatedpower strip and its attendant disadvantages of power loss and limitedlife.

It is possible to plug a GFI extension cord or a power strip with acomprised ground prong into a two blade ungrounded receptacle by using a“cheater plug” that allows the ground prong to be inserted without apresent ground. It is also possible to replace an ungrounded two bladeelectrical receptacle with one with ground socket without actuallyproviding a conductor to ground pin. Conventional existing receptaclesdo not indicate that the supply side safety ground is present or if itis compromised. It may be advantageous to protect the user and theequipment in the event of an incorrect grounding of an electricalreceptacle. If no safety-ground is present and a wire conductor isexposed (e.g. has degraded insulation) the user may act as the groundpath and receive a shock.

Traditionally, GFCI manual testing is accomplished by injecting acurrent imbalance. A thoroid type transformer is typically used tomeasure the current imbalance between neutral and hot conductors. Themonitoring circuit indicates that an imbalance has occurred withoutindicating the amount of imbalance. This method is limited in that theabsolute value of current imbalance is not available. There is merely avoltage level that indicates that an imbalance or fault has occurred. Itmay be advantageous for more comprehensive self-testing and interruptionof supply power to downstream and/or receptacle loads upon faultdetection or an internal component fault.

There are some devices that leverage power lines of a home's existingpower outlets to provide a communication network, so that a computerlocated at each outlet can communicate using signals over the powerline. These devices often use the hot power line to communicate, and aretherefore prone to circuit breaker trips and high voltage fluctuationproblems.

Additional difficulties with existing systems may be appreciated in viewof the Detailed Description of Example Embodiments, herein below.

SUMMARY OF DISCLOSURE

An example embodiment includes an electrical receptacle having a plugoutlet that has first and second contacts for electrical connection tohot and neutral power lines. A controlled state switch, such as a TRIAC,is connected in series relationship with the hot power line. The TRIACis a solid state switch or controlled state switch. Sensors are coupledto respective plug outlet contacts. Sensor signals are input to aprocessor having an output coupled to the control terminal of thecontrolled switch. The processor outputs an activation signal or adeactivation signal to the controlled switch in response to receivedsensor signals that are indicative of conditions relative to the firstand second contacts. When a plug is inserted into the plug outlet, theprocessor can output the activation signal at or near the zero voltlevel of the alternating current waveform. If the electrical receptacleis incorrectly wired, the processor will preclude outputting anactivation signal.

The receptacle may include a second plug outlet with a second controlledswitch connected in series relationship to the hot power line. Sensorsare coupled to the contacts of the second plug outlet to supply input tothe processor. The processor outputs an activation signal or adeactivation signal to the second controlled switch in response toreceived sensor signals that are indicative of conditions relative tothe contacts of the second plug outlet. The processor signals output tothe first and second controlled switches are independent of each other.Deactivation of the receptacle would not affect another receptacleconnected across the hot and neutral power lines. Deactivation signalsto the controlled switches are applied before a mechanical breaker canbe activated. Protection against voltage surge can be provided by avaristor coupled across the hot and neutral lines. The receptacle mayinclude a downstream electrical connection to a second electricalreceptacle having a second voltage surge protection circuit, therebyproviding a tighter voltage capping tolerance. An interrupt detectioncircuit is coupled to the contacts of each plug contact and provides aninput to the processor. In response to an interrupt detection circuit,the processor outputs a deactivation signal to the respective controlledswitch.

A mechanical switch mechanism can be electrically connected to the powersource. A detector, such as an optical switch, corresponding to eachprong socket contact, is connected to the switch mechanism and the powersource when the switch mechanism is activated by insertion of one ormore objects in the plug outlet. The processor generates an activationsignal to the control terminal of the controlled switch of the prongsocket in response to two or more objects being detected by theplurality of detectors within a specified time. The switch mechanism maycomprise a mechanical switch, corresponding to each prong socket, whichcomprises a switch plunger depressed by deflection of a spring contactwhen an object is inserted in the socket. An indicator may be coupled tothe processor to indicate that objects have not been inserted in theplug sockets within the specified time.

The receptacle may include a first circuit board for a hot line prongsocket for each plug outlet, with high power control circuitry forelectrical connection from the hot line to each hot line prong socket. Asecond circuit board, spatially separated from the first circuit boardincludes a neutral line prong socket for each plug outlet, withcommunication circuitry for electrical connection from a neutral line toeach neutral line prong socket. Both circuit boards may be planar andconfigured parallel to each other.

A current sensor, coupled to the hot power line, can sense ground fault,arc fault or over-current conditions. The current sensor provides inputto the processor to output a deactivation signal to the switch controlterminal upon indication of such fault conditions. The processor may bemounted on a circuit board housed within the receptacle.

The processor can record a number and intensity of overvoltageoccurrences of the receptacle and output an end-of-life indication basedon a maximum number threshold or intensity of the overvoltageoccurrences. A processor memory is provided to store sampled signalsfrom the power lines. A memory can store criteria for temporal signalimbalance, waveform criteria, minimum values, maximum values, tablelookup values, reference datasets and/or Fourier analysis criteria, withwhich the sampled signals are compared. Such storage may include aminimum monitoring time period of the sampled signals, which issufficient to detect a possible fault, and a reference lookup tablecomprising criteria relating to a temporal signal imbalance occurrenceof the sampled signals.

The processor can reconstruct waveforms of the sampled signals. From thesampled signals, the processor may determine that a sum of current ofall hot lines is not equal to current of a neutral line, or within a setthreshold, or determine temporal imbalance from sampled current signalsof the hot line. From such determinations the processor can apply adeactivation signal to an associated switch control terminal.

The receptacle may further include a communication subsystem forcommunicating with a downstream load or a second electrical receptaclethat is downstream of the receptacle. Stored current fault criteria mayinclude a threshold for the sum of current of the plug outlet andcurrent downstream of the electrical receptacle. The processor cansample signals at the upstream plug outlet and determine that a fault,such as a ground fault, occurs at the second electrical receptacle.After waiting a specified delay period, the processor may communicate asignal to the downstream receptacle only for deactivation thereof. Thespecified delay period allows time for the second receptacle todeactivate in response to the fault. A shorter delay period can beimposed for deactivation for a fault at the input of the firstreceptacle.

A plug orientation sensor may be coupled to the plug contacts. Thresholdcurrent fault values for different plug orientations, for example 20ampere plug orientation and 15 ampere plug orientation, may be stored inprocessor memory. The processor can determine if the plug outlet hasreceived a plug without a ground prong. The processor, in response toinput from the plug orientation sensor, can output a deactivation signalapplicable to the respective plug orientation.

The processor is configured to perform self-testing of the electricalreceptacle to determine if there is an internal component failure.Self-testing can be performed in an ongoing or periodic routine. Theprocessor is also capable of recalibrating sensors, including voltageand current sensors. Such calibration can be effected by coupling aconstant current source to the processor. A deactivation control signalcan be generated in response to a fault determination during theself-testing routine.

Another example embodiment is an electrical receptacle, including: apair of contacts comprising a first contact and a second contactconfigured for electrical connection to a hot power line and a neutralpower line, respectively, and each configured for downstream electricalconnection to a respective downstream power line; a controlled stateswitch connected in series relationship between the hot power line andthe first contact; at least one sensor to detect signals indicative ofthe hot power line; at least one sensor to detect signals indicative ofthe neutral power line; and a processor configured to control anactivation or a deactivation of the controlled state switch in responseto the signals detected by at least one of the sensors or in response toreceiving a communication.

Another example embodiment is a communication system, comprising: awired network; an electrical receptacle configured for electricalconnection to at least one power line, the electrical receptaclecomprising a communication subsystem configured for wired communicationsover the wired network to communicate with one or more furtherelectrical receptacles; and a gateway for controlling access and/orauthentication to the wired communications over the wired network.

Another example embodiment is a communication device, comprising: afirst contact configured for electrical connection to a neutral powerline, and a second contact configured for electrical connection toground; a processor; and a communication subsystem configured for wiredcommunications over the neutral power line to the ground.

Another example embodiment is a communication device, comprising: afirst contact configured for electrical connection to a first hot powerline having a first power line phase, and a second contact configuredfor electrical connection to a second hot power line having a secondpower line phase different from the first power line phase; and aprocessor configured to bridge wired communications between the firstpower line phase and the second power line phase.

Another example embodiment is an electrical receptacle for connection topower lines, comprising: a first contact and a second contact configuredfor electrical connection to a hot power line and a neutral power line,respectively; a communication subsystem configured for wiredcommunications with one or more further electrical receptacles; aprocessor having a packaging with pins, and configured to communicatevia the wired communications; a dry contact switch which is configuredto, without a voltage reference source, short two pins of the packagingof the processor, the processor responsive to the short to effect,directly by the processor or indirectly via at least one furtherprocessor, deactivation of one or more of the further electricalreceptacles, by communication over the wired communications.

Another example embodiment is a manual power override system,comprising: a plurality of devices each configured for wiredcommunications and each having a controlled state switch to control hotline power to that individual device, the plurality of devicescomprising at least one of or all of: an electrical receptacle having aplug outlet, an in-line electrical receptacle, a load, and/or a circuitbreaker panel; a processor having a packaging with pins; a communicationsubsystem operable by the processor for the wired communications; a drycontact switch which is configured to, without a voltage referencesource, short two pins of the packaging of the processor, the processorresponsive to the short to effect, directly by the processor orindirectly via at least one further processor, deactivation of thecontrolled state switch of each of the plurality of devices, bycommunication over the wired communications.

Another example embodiment is a electrical safety system, comprising: anelectrical receptacle, comprising a plug outlet comprising first andsecond contacts configured for electrical connection to a hot power lineand a neutral power line, respectively, a controlled state switchconnected to the first contact in series relationship with the hot powerline, a processor configured to control an activation or a deactivationof the controlled state switch, the controlled state switch being in adeactivation state as a default when there is a plug in the plug outlet.

In an example embodiment, the electrical safety system further comprisesa load, comprising the plug, and a communication subsystem for the loadconfigured to communicate to the communication subsystem for theelectrical receptacle that the load is to be powered on.

Another example embodiment is a circuit breaker panel comprising: atleast one circuit breaker for connection to at least one hot power line,and each circuit breaker configured for downstream electrical connectionto a respective downstream power line; a processor for controlling theat least one circuit breaker; at least one sensor to detect signalsindicative of the at least one hot power line; and a communicationsubsystem for wired communication with devices that are downstream tothe at least one circuit breaker; wherein when one of the circuitbreakers opens, the processor is configured to output informationrelating to the signals from the at least one sensor.

Another example embodiment is an appliance or load comprising: a circuitboard including a processor configured for power control of theappliance or load, and the processor further configured for power safetyof the appliance or load and/or communication with an electricalreceptacle.

Another example embodiment is a communication device, comprising: aneutral contact for connection to a neutral power line; a ground contactfor connection to ground; and a communication subsystem forcommunicating over the neutral power line to the ground.

Another example embodiment is a circuit breaker for connection at leastone power line, comprising: a breaker for connection to a hot power lineof the at least on power line; a processor for controlling the breaker;and a communication subsystem for wired communication over at least oneof the power lines.

Additional features of the present disclosure will become readilyapparent to those skilled in this art from the following detaileddescription, wherein only the preferred embodiments are shown anddescribed, simply by way of illustration. As may be realized, there areother and different embodiments, and its several details are capable ofmodifications in various obvious respects, all without departing fromthe scope. Accordingly, the drawings and description are to be regardedas illustrative in nature, and not as restrictive.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

Various exemplary embodiments are illustrated by way of example, and notby way of limitation, in the figures of the accompanying drawings inwhich like reference numerals refer to similar elements and in which:

FIG. 1A is an isometric exploded view of a tamper resistant (TR)electrical receptacle in accordance with an example embodiment;

FIG. 1B is a detail view taken from FIG. 1A;

FIG. 1C is a front view of the TR receptacle of FIG. 1A;

FIG. 1D is a section view taken from FIG. 1C;

FIG. 1E is a front view of TR receptacle of FIG. 1C shown with a pluginserted;

FIG. 1F is a section view taken from FIG. 1E.

FIG. 2 is a circuit diagram for the example embodiment of FIG. 1A,utilizing GFI protection;

FIG. 3 is a flowchart for operation of the circuit of FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 is a more detailed circuit diagram of the example embodiment ofFIG. 1A, including GFI tester and sensing, and communications module;

FIGS. 5A and 5B are a flowchart for operation of the circuit of FIG. 4;

FIGS. 6A-A, 6A-B, 6B, 7A, 7B-A, 7B-B, 7C together comprise a circuitdiagram for AFCI and GFCI and surge protection, taken with the circuitdiagram of FIG. 4;

FIG. 8 is a detailed schematic representation of the processor,communications module and logic elements of the circuit diagrams ofFIGS. 6A-A, 6A-B, 6B, 7A, 7B-A, 7B-B, 7C;

FIG. 9 is a flowchart for operation of the processor of FIG. 8;

FIG. 10 is a GFI manual test flowchart for operation of the processor ofFIG. 8;

FIG. 11 is a processing task flowchart for tamper resistance bladedetection circuitry of FIGS. 6-8:

FIG. 12 is a sampling flowchart for the ADC circuitry of FIGS. 6A-A,6A-B, 6B, 7A, 7B-A, 7B-B, 7C and 8;

FIG. 13 is an AFCI flowchart for the circuits of FIGS. 6A-A, 6A-B, 6B,7A, 7B-A, 7B-B, 7C and 8;

FIG. 14 illustrates an ADC reset process flowchart for the circuits ofFIGS. 6A-A, 6A-B, 6B, 7A, 7B-A, 7B-B, 7C and 8;

FIG. 15 is an GFI Test flowchart for the circuits of FIGS. 6A-A, 6A-B,6B, 7A, 7B-A, 7B-B, 7C and 8;

FIG. 16 is an GFI reset process flowchart for the circuits of FIGS.6A-A, 6A-B, 6B, 7A, 7B-A, 7B-B, 7C, 8;

FIG. 17 is a surge test process flowchart for the circuits of FIGS.6A-A, 6A-B, 6B, 7A, 7B-A, 7B-B, 7C and 8;

FIG. 18 is a data table for the processor of the example embodiment;

FIG. 19 is an auto/self-test process flowchart for the exampleembodiment;

FIG. 20A is a plan view of the receptacle of example embodiment;

FIG. 20B is a view of the receptacle from FIG. 20A with a plug inserted;

FIG. 21 is an isometric view the example embodiment of the receptaclewith side heat sink;

FIG. 22 is a partial view of the receptacle of FIG. 21 shown with aground plate;

FIG. 23 is an isometric view of the example embodiment for a 15/20 Areceptacle;

FIG. 24 is a partial view of the receptacle shown in FIG. 23 with groundplate and heat sink flange;

FIGS. 25A, 25B, 25C, 25D and 25E are various views of a 15 A pluginserted into a daughter board of the receptacle shown in FIG. 23;

FIGS. 26A, 26B, 26C, 26D and 26E are various views of a 20 A pluginserted into the daughter board of the receptacle shown in FIG. 23;

FIG. 27A is a front view of an example receptacle embodiment withmicro-switch implementation for blade detection;

FIG. 27B is a section view taken from FIG. 27A;

FIG. 28 is an isometric view of single circuit board of the embodimentof FIGS. 20A and 20B;

FIG. 29 is an isometric view of the blades of a plug in the singlecircuit board embodiment shown in FIG. 28;

FIG. 30 is an isometric view of blades of a 20 A plug in the singlecircuit board embodiment shown in FIG. 28;

FIG. 31 is a block diagrammatic view of an example system which includesanother example embodiment of the electrical receptacle, with sharedprocessing;

FIG. 32 is a block diagrammatic view of another example system whichuses the electrical receptacle for monitoring and control, in accordancewith an example embodiment;

FIG. 33 is detailed schematic representation of an integrated controland monitoring system, in accordance with an example embodiment;

FIG. 34 is a communications diagram, in accordance with an exampleembodiment;

FIG. 35 illustrates a processing task flowchart of criteria andactivities related to initiation of power upon a user-initiated or loadrequest;

FIGS. 36A and 36B illustrates a processing task flowchart of ongoingmonitoring of the integrity of power line circuitry and response tofault(s), and block circuit diagram of an associated system;

FIG. 37A illustrates a block circuit diagram of another exampleembodiment of a system which includes smart appliances;

FIG. 37 illustrates an example embodiment of microcircuitry that can beintegrated into an appliance or another powered device;

FIG. 38 illustrates a processor having dry contact switches, inaccordance with an example embodiment; and

FIG. 39 illustrates side views of a physical representation of single-,double-, and triple-circuit breakers, respectively shown left-to-right,and a front view of all of the breakers, with connectors enabling powerline communication, in accordance with example embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS

As understood in the art of electrical circuits and power lines, Blackrefers to hot or live power line, White refers to neutral power line,and Ground means earth ground. Last mile setups can be referred to asBlack, White & Ground; or Live, Neutral and Ground. There is nopotential difference (zero volts) between ground and white. The Neutralcarries current back from the Black power line. Voltage Black to Whitepotential will show the line voltage e.g., 110 V; and Ground to Blackpotential will show the line voltage, e.g. 110 V.

FIG. 1C is a front view of receptacle 2 without plug insertion inoutlets 6. Referring to the isometric view of FIG. 1A, receptacle 2includes front housing 4 and rear housing 16. Sockets 8 in front housing4 serve to receive plug blades for each of two outlets 6. Enclosedwithin housing 4 and 16 are ground plate 10, neutral circuit board 14,hot circuit board 12 and terminal plates 13. Terminal screws 15 providefastening to power wires. FIG. 1B is an enlarged detail view of aportion of FIG. 1A. Lever 19 is positioned in the path of a contact 20of each outlet 6. Detector switch 18, positioned on circuit board 14,can be activated to energize a low voltage circuit by tripping lever 19when an object has been inserted into the left opening in the socket. Anoptical sensor, comprising emitter 22 and collector 24 is powered by thelow voltage circuit when activated. Two optical sensors are for providedfor each outlet 6. The optical sensors are coupled to control circuitryresponsive to signals received therefrom. The circuitry permitsconnection between power terminals 13 and contacts 20 of outlet 6 ifoptical sensor signals are indicative of non-tamper conditions. Controlcircuitry for the circuit boards is shown in detail in the circuitdiagrams of FIGS. 2, 4, 6A-A, 6A-B, 6B, 7A, 7B-A, 7B-B, 7C, and 8.

FIG. 1D is a section view taken from FIG. 1C. FIG. lE is a front view ofreceptacle 2, shown with plug prong blades 32, inserted in an outlet 6.FIG. 1F is a section view taken from FIG. 1E. Referring to FIG. 1D, asno object has been inserted in the socket, lever 19 has not moved toactivate detector switch 18. The low voltage circuit portion to whichthe optical sensor connected thus does not provide power to emitter 22.Collector 24 does not produce output signals. No connection is madebetween terminals 13 and contacts 20.

Referring to FIG. 1F, detector switch 18 lever arm 19 has been trippedby blade 32 inserted in socket 8. Contacts 20 are sprung open by theapplication of force on blades 32 of plug 30. Power is applied to thelow voltage circuit by virtue of tripped detector switch 18. The lowvoltage power remains applied when lever 19 is in the tripped position,i.e., whenever an object has been inserted in socket 8. Emitters 22above each socket are active to produce light. Each collector producesan output signal when exposed to light produced by the correspondingemitter. As shown, collectors 24 beneath blades 32 do not produce outputsignals because the prong blades located in the path between emittersand collectors have blocked the light transmission.

In operation, when a plug or foreign object is inserted in the leftsocket 8 of outlet 6, lever 19 is moved to the tripped position beforethe inserted object makes contact with the socket contacts 20. Duringthis time, power is applied to the low voltage circuit and to emitters22 of the respective outlet 6. As object insertion has not yet reachedcontacts 20, each collector 24 receives emitted light and produces anoutput signal to the control circuitry. The control circuitry will notpermit connection between power terminals 13 and contacts 20 of outlet 6if a light output signal is received from either collector. As insertionof the plug advances to socket contacts 20, as depicted in FIG. 1F,emitted light from both emitters is blocked and no signal is produced bycollectors 24.

The control circuitry is capable of determining the time difference, ifany, between termination of light signals received from both collectors24. If the time difference is determined to be near simultaneous, forexample within twenty five milliseconds, the control circuity willeffect connection of contacts 20 to terminals 13. That is, simultaneousor near simultaneous sensing of insertion at both sockets is indicativeof non-tampering. If a foreign object is attempted to be inserted into asocket, or if insertion of the plug cannot be completed to the contacts20, collector output signals preclude connection of the contacts to theterminals 13. Connection of the sockets 6 of the receptacle are thosecontrolled independently of each other.

Referring to the circuit diagram of FIG. 2, an N contact of each outlet2210 and 2212 of the receptacle is directly connected to the N (neutral)terminal of the alternating current source. The L contact of each outlet2210 and 2212 is coupled to the L (hot) terminal of the alternatingcurrent source through a respective TRIAC (TA1, TB1). Metal oxidevaristor (MOV) 2224 is connected across the L and N terminals to protectagainst overvoltage. Driver circuit 2206 is coupled to the controlterminal of the TRIAC of outlet 2210. Driver circuit 2216 is coupled tothe control terminal of the TRIAC of outlet 2212. Power supply 2202,connected across the L and N terminals, corresponds to power supply 18of FIG. 1B. Optical sensor arrangement 2218 contains optical emittersand receivers that correspond to emitter 22 and 24 of FIG. 1B. Switch2211, which corresponds to switch 19 of FIG. 1B, is connected betweenoptical sensor arrangement 2218 and power supply 2202 when an object hasbeen inserted into the socket of outlet 2210. Optical sensor arrangement2220 contains optical emitters and receivers that correspond to emitter22 and 24 of FIG. 1B. Switch 2213, which corresponds to switch 19 ofFIG. 1B, is connected between optical sensor arrangement 2220 and powersupply 2202 when an object has been inserted into the socket of outlet2212.

Logic core 2214 (aka a processor) comprises inputs connected to receivesignals output from optical sensors 2218 and 2220. Outputs of logic coreprocessor are connected respectively to driver circuits 2206 and 2216.Outputs of processor 2214 are connected to LED1 and LED2 forenergization thereof to indicate that objects have not been inserted inthe respective plug sockets within a specified time. Processor 2214 isfurther connected to ground fault injector 2204 to generate a tripoutput for a current imbalance. The disclosed logic circuitry mayinclude an AND gate or the like to receive signals from the opticalsensors

FIG. 3 is a flow chart of operation for the circuit of FIG. 2. At step300, operation is started. Initialization proceeds at step 302 withpower supply 2202 connected to the alternating current terminals. Atstep 304, there has been no activation of the TRIAC of a respectiveoutlet. Step 306 is a decision block as to whether switch 2211 or 2213has been tripped to supply power to the corresponding optical switchesand whether the L or N socket optical switch has been initially set byblockage of emitted light. If so, a delay timer is started at step 308.Decision block 310 determines whether both L and N socket opticalswitches are set by blockage of emitted light. If the outcome of step310 is positive, decision block 318 determines whether the positiveoutput of step 310 has occurred within 25 ms. If the outcome of step 318is positive, an ON status LED is activated at step 320. If there hasbeen no fault detected at step 322, the respective TRIAC is activated atstep 324 and activation thereof is continued as long as both L and Noptical switches are set by emitted light blockage, as determined instep 328. A negative outcome of step 328 results in turning off thestatus LED at step 330 and flow reverts to step 304, in which the TRIACis disabled.

If the outcome at step 310 is negative, the timer continues until it isdetermined that 25 ms has expired at step 312. A positive outcome ofstep 312 is indicative that a foreign object has been inserted in arespective socket to initiate an alarm in step 314. Decision block step316 determines whether optical switches for both L and N sockets havecleared. When the outcome of step 316 is positive, flow reverts to step304. The 25 ms delay period for TRIAC activation is intended to allowfor slight variations in plug blade length within manufacturingtolerances or slight misalignment of the blades in the sockets duringinsertion, while not being long enough to permit connection to the powersource by insertion of distinct foreign objects.

FIG. 4 is a more detailed circuit diagram, illustrating enhancements toFIG. 2, for operation of the embodiment of FIGS. 1A-1F. Current sensor2228 is coupled to the hot line current path for the socket of outlet2210. The output of current sensor 2228 is connected to an input ofprocessor logic core 2214. Current sensor 2230 is coupled to the hotline current path for the socket outlet 2212. Wireless communicationmodule 2232 is connected to a data input/output terminal of processorlogic core 2214. Protocol for wireless communications may include Wifi,Zigbee or other protocols. Power line communications module 2234 iscoupled between the alternating current source and a signal input oflogic core 2214. The processor logic core 2214 is also therefore enabledfor wired communication. Manual test button 2205 may be used for GFCItesting.

FIGS. 5A and 5B together form a flow chart for operation of the circuitof FIG. 4. Elements of FIGS. 5A and 5B that are in common with those ofFIG. 3 contain the same reference numerals and the description thereofcan be referred to the description of FIG. 3. FIG. 5A differs from FIG.3 in the respect that the decision branch from decision block 322 haschanged from step 324 and expanded to decision blocks 323 and 329. Stepsare provided for related communications beginning at step 334. At step334 communication is sent to the network that the plug has beensuccessfully inserted. Decision block 336 establishes whether thenetwork power should be enabled. If so, steps 338, 340 and 342 areprocesses related to power measurement and dimming. If not, steps 344,346 and 348 deal with disabling the Triac and any resulting Triac faults(decision block 346). Upon a fault detection, GFI tripping is enabled instep 348. In an example embodiment, dimming is achieved by cyclestealing performed by the processor onto the Triac, for example. Forexample, this can be done by removing partial or whole cycles bycontrolling the Triac.

FIGS. 6A-A, 6A-B and 6B are a more detailed circuit representation ofFIGS. 2 and 4, including a plurality of receptacles in a system forprotection against AFCI, GFCI and surge faults. For ease of clarity,FIGS. 6A-A, 6A-B and 6B are divided into three sections, reproduced inFIGS. 7A, 7B-A, 7B-B and 7C. Referring to FIG. 7A, power input lines areconnected to hot power terminal 11 and neutral power terminal 12. MOV 20is connected across the hot power and neutral power lines to protectagainst overvoltage. Power supply block 10, fed from the hot and neutralpower lines, provides low voltage power to the processor logiccircuitry. The processor circuit may comprise a microcontroller 80,shown in detail in FIG. 8. Microcontroller 80 may contain a broadbandnoise filter routine such as fast Fourier transform.

The output of power supply block 10 is coupled to current and voltagesensors block 30, and TRIAC drive blocks 40, 50 and 60 of the processorcircuit. Block 30 may represent a plurality of sensors, which are notshown here for clarity of description. Blocks 50 and 60 are illustratedin FIGS. 7B-A, 7B-B. Activation of TRIAC 43 by drive block 40 connectshot and neutral line power to terminals 13 and 14, which connect tothree series outlets 100 and two parallel outlets 110 that aredownstream, shown in FIG. 7C. Downstream may also include a load to becontrolled and monitored, such as a light receptacle (not shown here).Activation of TRIAC 53 by drive block 50 connects the hot line to upperoutlet 54, shown in FIGS. 7B-A, 7B-B. Activation of TRIAC 63 by driveblock 60 connects the hot line to lower outlet 64. GFI test push buttonswitch SW1 and reset push button switch SW2 are connected between theoutput of supply block 10 and the processor circuit. GFI and AFCI testcircuits 74 and 76 receive outputs 75 and 77, respectively as shown inFIGS. 7B-A, 7B-B, from the microcontroller 80, shown in FIG. 8. Allinputs and outputs shown in FIGS. 7A, 7B-A, 7B-B and 7C relate to therespective terminals of similar references in the processor of FIG. 8.

Accordingly, in another example embodiment, it would be apparent thatthe receptacle of FIGS. 7A, 7B-A, 7B-B and 7C can be used as an in-lineconnector which is serially connected to upstream power lines, providingcontrol, safety, and monitoring of downstream loads and/or downstreamreceptacle outlets. Instead of the form of a plug outlet being theoutput of line power to a load, the receptacle comprises in-lineconnectors/contacts as the output. Accordingly, in an exampleembodiment, the receptacle itself may not require a plug outlet, butrather can be used for downstream loads and/or downstream receptacleoutlets.

Each outlet 54, 64 of the receptacle has tamper resistance thatrestricts energizing of the sprung contacts until the blades of anelectrical plug are completely inserted into the receptacle. Multiplesensor inputs 55, 56, 57, 58, 65, 66, 67, 68 for the plug blades ofoutlets 54 and 64 are shown in FIGS. 7B-A, 7B-B. The sensors sense thearrival of the blades. If the arrivals are within a specified period oftime, the applicable outlet 54, 64 is energized. The device will onlyturn ON power to the particular outlet, when it detects that the twopower plug pin detection circuits have detected that the BLK & WHT plugpins have been inserted. The circuits provide a logic signal whichoperates as an interrupt to the microcontroller, so it will turn ON orOFF the TRIAC driver circuit (logic Output signal) 41, 51, 61. There isalso a respective TRIAC fault signal which is provided for each powerTRIAC. For example, the particular outlet 54, 64 is not provided withline power until a specified length, e.g. ⅞ inches (2.2 cm), of thebottom of the plug is inserted.

Upstream series arc faults can be detected by monitoring voltage 31.During a series arc fault the voltage on the conductor tends to beerratic and does not follow sine wave attributes. By monitoring current30 on the hot and neutral conductors and comparing it to the groundconductor, the presence of an arc fault is detected and the severity ofthe arc fault is reduced by disabling the receptacle outlets 54, 64and/or the downstream loads 14 to minimize current flow. Different arcfault types have different timing profiles. The logic processing cancompare sensed data to reference data that can be stored in a table.

As noted above, FIG. 8 sets forth in detail the input and output pins ofthe microcontroller 80. Included in the receptacle with microcontroller80 is communication module 90. Communication terminals 91 and 92 areconnected to corresponding pins of microcontroller 80. The antennaprovides communication with circuit receptacles to allow monitoring ofthe current draw of the circuit. Information from monitored voltage andcurrent can be analyzed, accessed, reported and/or acted upon. Power toand from any outlet can be turned on and/or off by external commands tothe communications module. A buffer interface, not shown, can be addedto communications lines 91 and 92. Data from microcontroller 80 can becollected by an external software application to provide externalcontrols such as dimming, turning power on/off, controlling poweroutputs, or for obtaining information on power outputs.

In an example embodiment, a dry contact switch can be implemented whichshorts two pins on any one of the microcontroller 80, the Serial PortJP1, and/or the communication module 90, therefore providing a manuallyoperated input command that can be processed by device, e.g. themicrocontroller 80. The microcontroller 80 can be configured toimplement a suitable task or series of tasks in response to activationof the dry contact switch. A dry contact switch does not require anactive voltage source, but rather the applicable processor can beconfigured to detect a manually-triggered short between two of its pins.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart of null task process 900 routines implemented byprocessor 80. Signals to processor 80 generate interrupts in accordancemulti-interrupt structure 902, 904, 906, and 908. Any of received resetinterrupt signal 902, push button test interrupt signal 904, tamperresistant related interrupt signal 906, and a-d converter (ADC)interrupt signal 908 triggers an interrupt for execution of theappropriate subsequent routine. In an example embodiment, the provisionof high power to a plug outlet by the receptacle is “always powered off”as a default until initiated by the processor, for example in responseto one of the interrupts or when it is determined that the plug outletis safe to be activated.

Interrupt 902, caused by a push button activated fault or by arequirement for a reset, such as need for a power up/startup, triggersstep 920 to activate the ADC Initialization process. Subsequently, ifstep 918 determines that the GFI flag is set, then step 922 initiatesGFI process steps depicted in FIG. 16, to reset and/or initialize GFIhardware. Tamper related interrupt 906, triggers step 912. Testing ofTamper Resistance is determined by sensing pins and responding to ADCinterrupts. The process for 912 is depicted in FIG. 11. Analog toDigital Conversion (ADC) interrupt 908, indicating that the ADCcompleted a conversion of one of the analog voltages, triggers ADCsampling process 914, depicted in FIG. 12. PB Test Interrupt 904initiates the GFI Manual test step routine 910 depicted in FIG. 10.

In an example embodiment, downstream loads or downstream furtherelectrical receptacle(s) are serially connected to the receptacle, withthe receptacle serially between the power lines and such downstreamloads or downstream further electrical receptacle(s). In such exampleembodiments, it can be appreciated that the tamper related interrupt 906may not be required to be implemented, while any and/or all of theremaining interrupts 902, 904, 908 can still be implemented, asapplicable.

The flow chart of FIG. 10 relates to a manual GFI test 1000. TestCircuit is represented as block 76 in FIG. 7B-A, 7B-B. Step 1002determines whether the test push button (PB) is pressed or released.Step 1004 sets the manual test flag (“enabled”) and tests the GFI testcircuit if PB has been pressed. Step 1006 disables the manual test flagand the GFI test circuit, respectively, if PB is released. This processillustrated can also be applicable to a manual push button test for GFIother faults including but not limited to AFCI. The enabling of the MGFItest flag is to trigger a priority interrupt during the next logicalprocessing step.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart that is common for both the upper and loweroutlets for detecting the insertion and removal of plug pins. Block 1100starts the tamper resistant function. Step 1102 verifies that TRprocessing is being done as indicated by the TR flag having been set. Ifthe line (L) and neutral (N) pins are already inserted, the processreturns to the Null Task polling routine 900 in FIG. 9. If the L and Npins have not been inserted, then the process continues to step 1104. Asthe triac should be off unless both L and N pins are detected to havebeen inserted each within a predetermined window timer (25 ms in thisexample), the triac is disabled. At step 1106, determination is made ofwhether an L or N plug prong is inserted. If so, the window timer atstep starts at step 1108. If decision block 1110 determines whether bothL and N plug prongs have been inserted in an upper or lower outlet in areceptacle within the acceptable 25 ms time frame, then step 1112enables the Upper or Lower Triac for the “upper outlet” or for the“lower outlet” respectively. If not, step 1124 has determined thatinsertion of both prongs has not occurred within the 25 ms timeframe,and then at step.1125 it is determined whether both L and N plug prongshave been removed, If so, flow may then revert to step 1104 to disablethe triac.

The decision block at step 1114 determines whether a fault is detectedin the triac circuit. If not, decision block at step 1116 determineswhether a 20 amp or 15 amp pin has been inserted in the outlet.Depending on whether or not a 20 A Pin has been pressed or released,step 1118 will set 20 A or step 1120 will set 15 A as the maximumcurrent.

If step 1124 determines that both pins aren't inserted within therequired 25 ms timer parameter, then the process continues to step 1104to disable the Triac. If a fault has been determined in step 1114, theprocess returns to step 1104 where the Triac is disabled.

FIG. 12 is the flowchart of the AFCI sampling process 1200 which takesplace as a result of receiving an Analog to Digital Converter Interrupt908 in FIG. 9 indicating the presence of a new analog value, whichinterrupt calls this sampling routine 1200 from block 914. It can beappreciated that the ADC sampling process 1200 can be performedcontinuously in example embodiments. Some conventional systems may onlymonitor power (watts), they may not look for high frequency data orattributes.

Once values of voltage and current (1-5 in block 1204) have beensampled, stored in the Data Table 1208 and a sufficient preset number(Samples Permissible Counter 31 in Data Table) of samples have beenaccumulated (steps 1204, 1206, 1207 and 1211), then values in the DataTable are processed according to the actions in block 1212 to be usedfor other purposes such as fault testing.

For each new analog value, the tasks in block 1204 are executed:establishing which line (1-5) was sampled; i.e. the Black/Line Voltage(1), the current of the upper outlet (2), the current of the loweroutlet (3), the White/Neutral Current (4) and the downstream current(5). Upon receipt of one value for any of 1-5, the sample counter value(preset in this embodiment to the value 5) is stored (block 1204, step6) in Data Table block 1208 (0) which value gets updated. This samplecounter is then decremented (step 7) in order to read the next value(1-5) retrieved from MUX which is set to next logical input. Step 8 inblock 1204 then reloads the value of the ADC (“A/D”) Timer found in DataTable block 1208 (30) to the ADC control register to reinitialize. TheMUX is an analog multiplexor which selects for the ADC one of the 8permissible analog inputs (in this embodiment, only 5 are used foranalog signals).

One ADC generates one value based on the MUX selecting the next of oneof the 5 analog inputs signal values to be processed, reloading thetiming register in the processor which is for the Analog Digitalconversion. A/D sample Timer (30) in the Date Table 1208 is the numberof processor clock cycles to wait (e.g. 16) before the processor's ADCgenerates the next analog value to be stored. As it is ADC hardwaredependent, the 16 clock cycles may be a different value for anotherprocessor.

Decision block 1206 tests to see if the sampling processes in block 1204have been repeated five times to acquire the five analog measurements(1-5 in block 1204), based on the Sample Counter being decremented (7,block 1204) from five to zero.

Data Table 1208 builds values in locations 1-5 from the sample values1-5 obtained in block 1204 and is stored in the Data Table based on thesample counter (0).

During the process 1204, the Sample Counter which is decremented rangesfrom 1 to 5, and is used as a pointer in the Data Table 1208, being anindex indicating which of the 100 to 500 arrays to use.

Decision block 1206 determines that if the Sample Counter has notdecremented down to zero, then the process returns to null task FIG. 9waiting for next ADC interrupt signal.

Once the counter has decremented to 0, sampling will repeat untilsufficient samples have been collected based on the value in SamplesPermissible 31, Data Table 1208.

For example, in this embodiment, as 99 sample values are beingaccumulated for each of the 1-5 power signals, then 99 sample values ofthe Black Voltage these would be stored in the Data Table as 101 to 199;99 sample current values for the upper outlet in 201-299; 99 samplevalues for the lower outlet, in 301 to 399; 99 sample values for theWhite Current, in 401-499; and 99 sample values for Downstream Current,in 501-599.

The steps in block 1207 and the decision block 1211 cause the samplingof the 5 signal values to take place for 99 times to be used todetermine AFCI signature, and to calculate averages (RMS) for example.Decision block 1211 using the changing value in 31 of Data Table 1208,determines if the value in the Samples Permissible Counter (31) has beendecremented from 99 to 0.

In an embodiment, in FIG. 12 ADC values are read from the ADC registerand stored in data sets and then the data is processed. In thisembodiment 99 values have been used for each of the five power types, asbeing sufficient to represent the sine wave signature. The sample values(100-599) are used after processing to detect spikes, etc. occurring inthe values in the Table.

At block 1212, there now are a full set of values within each of the 5arrays 100, 200, 300, 400 and 500.

From the samples collected in each of 100, 200, 300, 400 and 500 series,peaks can be calculated (11, 12, 13, 14, and 15), as well as averages(6, 7, 8, 9 and 10).

Subsequent to processing steps in block 1212, four types of tests areperformed; namely, AFCI (1214, 1216), GFI (1218), Surge (1220) andAuto/Self (1222). However, in another embodiment, the data sampled mayalso be processed for Peak Values (11-15 in the Data Table 1208), powerspikes may be tested for; similarly RMS (average) values may be used tomonitor, test and disable power for brownout and/or other conditions.

Following the processing of the Data Table 1208 and establishment of anAFCI signature in 1212, the signature block 1214 tests for the presenceof an AFCI Signature. If AFCI signature is found it continues to step1216 to process AFCI tasks on FIG. 13.

FFT (Fast Fourier Transform) is a possible method of extractingfrequencies out of a Data Table. The FFT is looking at the values in100-599.

The detection of spikes indicates that there is arcing; i.e. highfrequency pulses. FFT finds the frequency that is indicative of thearcing, then values are checked for duration and amplitude. If decisiontable 1214 does not find an AFCI signature, the process continues toblock 1218 to determine if GFI fault conditions exist. Subsequently theprocess continues testing for Surge 1220 and then Auto/Self Test 1222.

Other tests may be incorporated, for example, for overvoltage andbrownouts. Similar to GFI and Surge, all the raw data required exists inthe Data Table 1208.

Since ADC sampling is performed by the processor of the receptacle, inan example embodiment, when a plug is inserted into the plug outlet, theprocessor can further be controlled to output the activation signal ator near the zero volt level of the alternating current waveform.

In another example embodiment, the receptacle can protect against arcfaults by applying the zero crossing switching technology, because theinsert does not activate the full line power until all of the safetychecks are completed.

Activating power only if no fault condition has been detected, resultsin the receptacle offering power control while remaining safe. Once itis determined that it is safe to turn on the power, the processor doesso by activating the applicable TRIAC for the applicable power line.

Referring to the flowchart of FIG. 13, block 1300 starts processes forAFCI signatures and establishes whether and where there may be an AFCIfault requiring power to be shut off. Various types of processingactivities for various types of AFCI interrupts which can take place dueto voltage faults on the Black line in series, and/or current faults dueto faults on the local outlet or downstream. These are listed in block1302.

In Block 1302, Black Voltage signals are processed as these can signalSerial AFCI (“BLK V Serial AFCI”) conditions. Current on the white(“WHT”) for the local and for the downstream is processed for parallelAFCI fault signals. Block 1302 also references Serial, Local andDownstream (“Down”) preset counters for the Black Voltage Serial (4),Local (outlet) Current Parallel (5) and Downstream Current (6) AFCIconditions. In addition to event counters, there are timers for each ofthe three conditions (8, 9, 10). In this embodiment, both conditions ofminimum number of events and maximum timing must be met to turn off theTriac(s) at block 1320. The counters are used to minimize false triggers(e.g. an acceptable motor startup) of a non-AFCI condition provided theflag occurred a certain number of times and within a short time windowsuch as 4 seconds for the series, local and downstream timers (decisionblock 1305) indicating a valid AFCI condition requiring turning off ofthe power.

The Data Table 1304 in FIG. 13 is the same as table 1208 shown in FIG.12, as the values are re-used for different conditions. If an AFCI faulthas been detected at steps 1306, 1308, 1310 then the processes in Block1320 cause the Triac(s) to be turned off, cutting power at the localoutlet and downstream. Counters, timers, AFCI and related flags (egTriacs) are reset. Process continues to Null Task.

In an alternative example embodiment, it is possible to shut off powerthe power only to the local outlet or receptacle can be shut off, andnot to devices further downstream.

FIG. 14 is a flowchart of the ADC reset process. Interrupt 902 (FIG. 9)signals a manual power reset or power startup condition requiring an ADCreset action for hardware and power initialization tasks to be executed.Block 1402 initializes and resets certain counters and values:

Preset value (e.g. 16), representing the clock cycle, is loaded in 30,Table 1304 Value of 16 is specific to particular ADC hardware; ADCConverter counter is set to the value 5 in Table 1304(0); ADC RegisterTimer is set by storing the value in Table 1304(30) in the ADC RegisterTimer; ADC Converter Samples Permissible Counter in Table 1304(31) isreset to 99; AFCI Counters and GFI Counters are reset.

Although other processes may turn on the power Triac(s) independently ofa TR testing requirement, in process 1400, Triacs are not turned on atsteps 1408, 1412 and 1416 unless the TR function requirement has beenmet by decision box steps 1406, 1410 and 1414. Steps 1406, 1410 and 1414turn on the appropriate power Triac(s), depending on whether the UpperOutlet, Lower Outlet and/or Downstream flags have been set.

If 1406 indicates that there is nothing wrong in the upper outlet, theUpper Outlet is turned on at step 1408. If step 1410 indicatesdetermines that the Lower Outlet flag is set, indicating that there isnothing wrong with the Lower Outlet, then the Lower Outlet Power/Triacis turned on at step 1412. If step 1414 verifies that the Downstreampower feature is active (i.e.) the enable flag has been set, theDownstream is made available for processing by turning ON the DownstreamPower/Triac at step 1416. Turn on (or off) of the Power/Triac fordownstream is made for the entire receptacle, although this action canbe restricted to one or both of the outlets in the receptacle only. Inanother example embodiment, plug outlets are not provided by theelectrical receptacle and therefore steps 1406, 1408, 1410, 1412 are notrequired, and the flowchart can proceed directly to step 1414, and step1416 to control downstream series loads if required.

FIG. 15 is GFI test flowchart, in contrast to AFCI which works onsignatures (block 1214, FIG. 12). GFCI processing works on samplevalues, RMS values and durations, applying data table 1508, elements5-20. For example, the RMS (average) values are used for the Black(“BLK”) 7, 8 and 10 which is for power in and out; the White (“WHT”) 9represents all return currents. As noted previously, the various datatables 1208, 1304, 1508 and the table of FIG. 18 represent the sameprocessor memory storage. For example, creation of the data table 1508has occurred during the processes in FIG. 12.

The decision block of step 1510 determines that if the sum of thecurrent of Upper and Lower outlets and the downstream current is greaterthan 6ma, then there is a GFI fault and the three power/Triacs are to beturned off for both the upper and lower outlets as well as for thedownstream power. The signal Led Fault is turned ON and GFI Fault Flagis set. More specifically, step 1506 processes values in the Data Table1508 and sums the RMS (average) values for the upper (7), lower (8) anddown current (10). Decision block 1510 then determines if this sum isgreater than the White Current (4) on a sample by sample basis than apredetermined current (in this embodiment 6mA has been used), and ifnot, then there is no GFI fault.

Step 1510 compares the sum of individual values Upper, Lower and Down in200-299, 300-399, 500-599 respectively, against the value of thematching white values in 400. If this sum of the upper, lower anddownstream as compared to the White Current than 6 mA, then a fault isdetermined and 1512 turns off the power triac(s), whether for the upperor lower outlet and the downstream. The Fault LED is turned ON and theGFI Fault Flag is enabled. In an example embodiment, following apredetermined period of time (e.g. 15 minutes), the system may autoreset, and test if the GFI fault still is present. If not, the systemmay automatically restart.

FIG. 16 is a GFI reset process flowchart. This GFI Reset routine block1600 initializes GFI Hardware by turning OFF Fault LED, disabling theGFI Fault Flag, setting Enable Flags (TRIACS), and turning off the GFITest Register. Decision blocks of steps 1606, 1610 and 1614 establish ifcertain Power/TRIACs are to be turned on, depending on whether upperoutlet TR flags, lower outlet TR flags and downstream enable flagshaving been set. Similar to the process in the flowchart of FIG. 14which turns on power/Triacs used for any or all the upper, lower and/ordownstream functions, the GFI reset process turns on any or all of thethree Triacs during a GFI Reset process. Following reset, the processstep 1618 continues to the GFI Test 1218, FIG. 12.

FIG. 17 is a surge test process flowchart for turning off power/Triacsfor overcurrent and surges. The decision block of step 1702 determinesif there is a flag indication that Surge Protection is a feature in theoutlet. If not, the process returns to FIG. 12 block 1222 and proceedsto call the Auto/Self Test routine.

If the Surge test feature is enabled as indicated by the presence of aSurge Enable Flag at step 1702, it has been determined that there is noArc Fault occurring, and that there is no current imbalance between Hotand Neutral (GFI). At step 1706, Data Table samples are processed andthe process continues to decision steps 1708, 1712, and 1716 todetermine if current exceeds the permissible level (15 Amperes or 20Amperes). Certain overages over the MAX may be permissible for a limitedtime duration to provide for cases of a limited surge such as a motorstart-up.

Step 1706 processes the Data Table Samples (Block 1508): The Local Poweris totaled “Local” by adding the RMS values of the Upper and Loweroutlets, assuming two outlets are active in the receptacle. Then the sumof the Downstream RMS and the Local RMS generates “Total” Power. Thedecision blocks 1708 and 1712 then determine if the Downstream Currentor Total Current, respectively, is greater than or equal to Max, inwhich case step 1710 turns off the Downstream Power/Triac, and turns ONFault LED and appropriate flags. Max is a preset value based on whetherthe outlet is operating in 15 A or 20 A mode.

There is the capability to determine the Max current parameter dependingupon the presence of 15 A or 20 A plug blade. For example, it may bepermissible to draw 100% continuous current or 120% for less duration toprovide for start up time such as inrush for a hair dryer or airconditioner. Decision block 1716 compares the Local value (sum of bothUpper and Lower outlet) to the Max Current Parameter value. If greater,decision blocks 1724 and 1726 compare each of the upper and Loweroutlets, shutting off the respective Power/Triacs and turning on therespective Fault LED(s).

FIG. 18 lists the elements in the Data Table. These are preset oraccumulated, and/or processed during the execution of various routines.Of the 1 to 5 signals being monitored, 1, 2, 3 and 5 are done on theblack input, and 4 (“WHT”) is the return path. Current relatedinformation is used for GFI, Surges and Overcurrent processing; voltage,for AFCI serial, overvoltage and brownouts. The Sample Counter (0) ispreset to a value of 5 as the embodiments are monitoring 5 current, orvoltage values: Black Voltage, Upper Black Current, Lower Black Current,Down Black Current and White (“WHT”) Current. Timers 21 to 26 are fortracking how long the events occurred. BLK shows individual load currentdrawn and WHT is the return path for all currents unless there is afault.

FIG. 19 is an auto/self-test process flowchart that is initiated fromFIG. 12, block 1222 and is primarily for auto/self testing of thesystem's hardware including but not limited to the GFI function(decision block 1908). The system may also test information from othersensors for calibration, temperature, etc.

If step 1901 determines that this is a manual test, then the processesin block 1906 are initiated. If a fault has been determined, the poweris turned off at step 1904. Whether a self test as established in step1902, or a manual test as determined in step 1901, step 1906 enables theGFI test circuit, reads the ADC values for the Upper, Lower, the White,and the Black & the White downstream, sums the Upper and Lower values,and disables the GFI Test Circuits.

Step 1908 tests whether an imbalance has occurred. If it was a manualtest, the process continues to 1912. If it was an internal test andfailed, the power is turned off. If is determined in step 1910 that amanual test failed, the power is turned off.

FIG. 20A is a partial plan view of a physical layout of a receptacle,such as described with respect to FIGS. 1A, 1B, 1C, 1D, lE and 1F,operable by means of the circuits of FIGS. 6A-A, 6A-B, 6B, 7A, 7B-A,7B-B, 7C and 8. A plug has not been inserted in the receptacle. FIG. 20Billustrates the receptacle of FIG. 20A with insertion of plug 160. Powercircuit board 152 includes two sprung contacts 156. Daughter circuitboard 150 includes two sprung contacts 154. Circuit board 152 includessprung contacts 156.

Boards 152 and 156 are substantially parallel to, and separated from,each other. Contacts 154 and 156 are aligned with each other, bridgedacross the separation by inserted plug blades 158, as shown in FIG. 20B.The two circuit boards allow separation between the high voltage powercontrol logic components on circuit board 152 and circuit board 150, thelatter containing sensing logic and communication components. Moreparticularly, the voltage sensing, control, connection of high voltageto the plug pins, device power interconnect lines (Upstream [BLK/WHTIN]/Downstream [BLK/WHT Out]) 30 are included on power circuit board152. Plug pin sensing logic elements are include on circuit board 150.This arrangement provides high efficiency of the power circuitry, as thehigh current traces are all together. Ability of the GFI and AFCIprotection is afforded to measure the currents on both the neutral aswell as on the hot lines, and to reliably measure a fine currentimbalance, for example as little as six milliamps.

Full insertion of plug 160 completes circuit connection ofmicrocontroller 80 with low voltage sensor circuits 55, 56, 57, 58 and65, 66, 67, 68, depicted in FIGS. 6, 7B-A, 7B-B and 8. Microcontroller80 monitors the sensor contacts to determine whether the power is to beturned on or off. Circuit board 150 monitors the contact sensors todetermine the insertion time of the plug neutral and hot blades. Groundprong 57, 67 insertion time is also assessed. The ground prong is longerthan the hot and neutral blades. If a ground plug is present, it isdetected first to establish distinctive timing criteria. Themicrocontroller will wait for the other blades to be inserted.

Separation of the current sensors to a single board facilitatesmeasurement of precision, calibration, and long term stability. There isno need to tamper with any of the high voltage variables that arestable, having already been calibrated. The separated board makesprovision for addition of other communication functions, e.g, Bluetooth,Zigbee, WiFi power line communications while limiting the number ofsignals traveling between the two circuit boards.

The reliability and lifespan of electrical components are enhanced bymaintaining them at a relatively low temperature. FIGS. 21 and 22exemplify provision in the receptacle of an oversized ground plate thatacts as a heat sink for the electrical thermal components that generateheat, such as the exemplified TRIACs. A ground plate width and heightare maximized on the front face. A bent flange on the receptacle sideadds to the surface area and strength for heat dissipation. The groundplate may be constructed of galvanized steel or alternate thermalconductive materials. Fins may be added to maximize heat conductionsurface area. FIG. 23 exemplifies a 15/20 A embodiment of thereceptacle. FIG. 24 depicts ground plate with heat sink flange for thereceptacle shown in FIG. 23.

Referring to FIGS. 25A, 25B, 25C, 25D and 25E, a 15 A plug 218 isinserted into the daughter board of the receptacle shown in FIG. 23.FIGS. 26A, 26B, 26C, 26D and 26E illustrate insertion of a 20 A into thedaughter board of the receptacle shown in FIG. 23. Sprung contacts 212and 214 and 228 sense insertion of neutral blade 220. Hot sprung contact216 only senses the insertion of the hot plug blade. A neutral blade 220for a 15 A plug mates only with neutral sprung contacts 212 and 214, asdepicted in FIGS. 25A, 25B, 25C, 25D and 25E. Additional mating withcontact 226 occurs only for insertion of a 20 A plug, depicted in FIGS.26A, 26B, 26C, 26D and 26E. Blades 214 and 216 are sensed to determinethe arrival time of each of the blades to confirm insertion of a plugrather than foreign objects. The orientation of the blades is alsosensed by the contacts in order to determine if the plug configurationis for a 15 A appliance or a 20 A appliance 226. On the neutral side,there is the possibility of two neutral plug blade orientations. THEWHT/Neutral pin can be inserted vertically or horizontally. If verticalthen the plug is signaling that it is a 20 Amp plug. If it is horizontalthen it is a 15 Amp plug. For example, when the TR features of thecircuit detects the second pin has been fully inserted, it sets the TRflag for the particular (upper or lower) outlet and sets its currentrating. The current limit/rating for the downstream power is set bysoftware (at manufacturer or by installer).

Referring to FIGS. 27A-27B, micro switches 205 are used to determinewhether there is full insertion of a plug blade. Sprung contacts depressswitch push buttons upon insertion. Micro switch plunger 207 isdepressed by the sprung contact 201 that is deformed when a plug bladeis inserted into the outlet socket 203. The side of the plug blade isused to determine insertion time. This is because the variation in bladelength allowed by standard is quite large.

FIG. 28 is an isometric view of single circuit board that used both tosense blade insertion and supply power to the blades of the receptaclesof FIGS. 25A, 25B, 25C, 25D and 25E and FIGS. 26A, 26B, 26C, 26D and26E. The receptacle housings and ground plate have been hidden forclarity. FIG. 29 depicts insertion of a 15 A plug in the circuit boardof FIG. 28. FIG. 30 depicts insertion of a 20 plug in the circuit boardof FIG. 28. This configuration of contacts allows assessment of thearrival of blades and supply of power to the power contacts.Identification of whether a 15 A plug or 20 A plug has been insertedpermits setting of the maximum trip current of the outlet.

For each of the two outlets of circuit board 230, there are two sprunghot contacts 232 and 234. Hot contact 232 supplies power to the hotpower blade. Hot contact 234 is the sensing contact. For each of the twooutlets of circuit board 230, there are three sprung neutral contacts236, 238 and 240. Neutral contact 236 is the 15 A sensing contact,neutral contact 238 is the power contact and neutral contact 240 is the20 A sensing contact.

Hot blade 244 closes the circuit between hot contacts 232 and 234,effectively sensing the arrival of the blade. Slots 242 in contacts 232,234, 238 and 240 are sized slightly smaller than the thickness of theblade to allow the contacts to spring outwardly when a blade is insertedand apply pressure on the blade ensuring electrical conduction.

Neutral 15 A blade 220 closes the circuit between neutral 15 A sensingcontact 236 and neutral power contact 238. Neutral 15 A sensing contact236 is positioned at a distance, slightly less than the thickness ofneutral 15 A blade 220, away from neutral power contact 238. Whenneutral 15 A blade is inserted neutral 15 A sensing contact flexesallowing the blade to be inserted and apply pressure on the bladeensuring electrical conduction.

Neutral 20 A blade 224 closes the circuit between neutral power contact238 and neutral 20 A sensing contact 240. Neutral 20 A blade 224 doesnot contact neutral 15 A sensing contact 236 due to a clearance slot.

In this disclosure there are shown and described only exemplaryembodiments and but a few examples of its versatility. It is to beunderstood that the embodiments are capable of use in various othercombinations and environments and are capable of changes ormodifications within the scope of the inventive concept as expressedherein. For example, the term “processor” has been used in thisdisclosure in a generic sense to include integrated circuits such asmicroprocessor, microcontroller, control logic circuitry, FPGA, etc. Theterms “upstream” and “downstream” are used to refer to the respectiverelative direction in relation to the circuit branch originating at theelectrical supply. The term “socket” has been used to indicate anindividual contact of the outlet to mate with an individual plug prong.The terms plug “prong” and plug “blade” have been used interchangeably.While optical sensors have been illustrated, the concepts disclosedherein are applicable to the use of other equivalent sensors. Moreover,the data tables are shown as 1208, 1304, 1508 to relate to flow chartFIGS. 12, 13, 15 and 18. A single memory table of processor 80 comprisesall of the described data tables. Reference to “deactivation” does notnecessarily mean an explicit deactivation signal. Rather, the processorcan comprise interlocking flags that ensure that the triac pulses on thepins do not pass through, are not active. When they do not pass through,this means that the power remains turned off and is not being turned onor explicitly activated.

Some example embodiments illustrate, but are not limited to, receptacleswhich typically include two outlets. These concepts are applicable toother receptacles of multiple other multiple outlets, one of which maylack a series switch. Moreover, although an electrical receptacle isdescribed an example embodiment, the application of the features andmeans of accomplishing them are not limited to an electrical receptacle.While switches 2211 and 2213 of FIG. 2 are depicted as being tripped byan object inserted in the N socket, such tripping can, instead, occurfrom insertion of an object in the L socket. While a maximum time periodof 25 ms for source connection has been exemplified in the descriptionof FIGS. 2 and 3, a different time period is within the contemplation ofthis disclosure.

FIG. 31 illustrates a block diagrammatic view of an example system whichincludes another embodiment of the electrical receptacle, withshared/distributed logic and shared/distributed processing. In anexample embodiment, each block 2000, 2010, 2020 generally represents aseparate processor. In an example embodiment, each block 2000, 2010,2020 resides separately, at least as separate circuit boards. Forexample, in an example embodiment, blocks 2000, 2010 are separatecircuit boards (with separate processors) residing in separatepackaging, e.g. block 2010 is located at an electrically safe distanceand can have its own associated local inputs and/or outputs. Block 2020represents a separate device. “Wired” in FIG. 31 refers to the wiredinterface, buffer. The “wired” can comprise a data bus or connectionsuch as an RJ-45 Data cable.

In the example embodiment shown, there are two separate processors,CPU/Control Logic(1) and CPU/Control Logic (2), which each can eachhandle (share) the same inputs and outputs (I/Os), including high powerline signal inputs and outputs. There is a communication link betweenthe two processors, which can be wired, wireless, or both wired andwireless. For example, these two processors can be configured to haveserial communication (wired and/or wireless) there between. Antenna asinput/output to wireless interface provides wireless (versus wired)communication between sensors and the control logic.

Block 2020 represents a separate wireless communication device, whichcan be a third party device, OEM (original equipment manufacturer)device, or other device that has its own CPU controller. Examplesinclude wireless communication devices, mobile phones, laptops, andtablet computers. As shown in FIG. 31, there is also a wireless linkthat can go to block 2020.

The system shown in FIG. 31 illustrates an architecture that also givesredundancy to do enhanced safety type, in accordance with exampleembodiments. In block 2000, the CPU/Control Logic (2) is a redundantsection for enhanced reliability.

Block 2000 can be used for the functionality of block 80 (describedabove with respect to at least FIG. 8). Block 2000 represents thecontrol logic comprising of a processor and/or control logic, and itsrespective inputs local to the processor (such as sensors e.g. smoke,ozone, temperature, carbon monoxide etc) and outputs local to theprocessor (e.g. LED's, sounder, separate relay, etc., providing an alertor voltage or signaling to another device). Another example sensor is atemperature sensor which senses electronics and temperature inside thereceptacle casing. The provides a calibrated sensor source in-unit,wherein current sensors have certain variation so they can becompensated for drift by the appropriate processor.

The power sensors for Block 2000 can comprise high power current sensorsand/or incoming voltage sensors. The high power current sensors can beAllegro™ sensors, in an example embodiment. For the high power lines,the block 2000 performs the monitoring, control and safety functions asdescribed herein.

Block 2000 also provides for shared inputs and outputs processed by thesecond processor (“CPU/Control Logic (2)”). The processors for the CPUs,Control Logic(1) and Control Logic (2), are configured to communicate toeach other through the central block as they share the wirelessinterface and/or the wired interface. CPU/Control Logic (2) can be afailsafe or override should CPU/Control Logic (1) fail. Therefore, inone example embodiment, CPU/Control Logic (1) acts as the primarycontrol of the triacs and other control functions, while CPU/ControlLogic (2) acts as a backup control. In another example embodiment, thereis shared control by both the CPU /Control Logic (1) and the CPU/ControlLogic (2), for example using an OR gate to decide on any particularcontrol activity (e.g. activation, deactivation, interrupt).

Block 2010 differs from 2000 in that it does not have the related highpower inputs and outputs. Therefore, in an example embodiment, block2010 is a low power circuit board (e.g. all 5V as logic power), whileblock 2000 is a high power circuit board for passing and controlling thepower lines, which comprise high power inputs and outputs, as well aslower power circuitry for logic and control functions. In an exampleembodiment, block 2010 can have its own separate power source, which caninclude a battery and/or a suitable AC to DC power converter, or receiveits power (e.g., 10 volts or less) through the wires in the data bussuch as an RJ-45 Data cable operating as POE (Power Over Ethernet)configuration. Zero power functions can also be included, such asincluding one or more manual dry contact switches that are processed bythe CPU in block 2010.

Block 2010 can have its own associated local sensors inputs and/oroutputs. Block 2010 can be a remote control head that passes commandsoff through a communication line to Block 2000, e.g. through theapplicable wired and/or the wireless interface. Block 2010 sendsmessages to the power block 2000, to implement the safety features,monitoring and control, as described herein.

In some example embodiments, there are more than two processors in block2000, multiple blocks 2010, multiple blocks 2020′s, and/or multipleblocks 2000, which are all wired on independent buses or the same busand/or may be configured to all communicate wirelessly to each other.

In an example embodiment, a dry contact switch can be included in any orall of the CPUs of block 2000 and/or, block 2010. The dry contact switchshorts two pins of the chip packaging of one of the CPUs, thereforeproviding a manually operated input command that can be processed by theCPU. The CPU can be configured to implement a suitable task or series oftasks in response to activation of the dry contact switch. The task caninclude deactivation of a triac or sending a message to one or moreother processors. A dry contact switch does not require active voltageto manually input a command, but rather the applicable CPU can beconfigured to detect a short between two of its pins.

The vertical bar on the right of FIG. 31 is a data communications bus,for example discreet wires such as RJ46, twisted pair, low voltage lowlevel wires carrying data in different directions.

Block 2020 represents a wireless communication device. In an exampleembodiment, block 2020 can be any type of wifi wireless computerprogrammed with a suitable Application Program Interface (API). Block2020 illustrates that external devices can communicate with theelectrical receptacle and the processors such as blocks 2000, 2010.Further user applications can be installed onto the wirelesscommunication device to allow the user control of the settings,functionality, and some manual controls of the electrical receptacle.Typically, a user interface device is provided to the user through block2020 in order to control the user applications, e.g. on, off, anddimmer.

The messages and commands are passed over various interfaces, such aswired (RG 45, RG 46 or other wires for different distances andenvironments) and wireless interface (e.g., wifi, zigbee, etc.).

With the second processor second processor “CPU/Control Logic (2)” it ispossible to share the local sensors which senses the plugs wheninserted, or temperature, or other input sensors, and accordinglycontrol the power circuitry the load. In the event that one of theprocessors CPU/Control Logic (1) or CPU/Control Logic (2) goes down, thereceptacle is still able to keep running. The processors can communicatewith each other and with the controlled loads. The processors canoperate the loads with on/off, or other power controls such as dimming,for example, effectively operating as low voltage switches or controls.

FIG. 32 illustrates a block diagrammatic view of an example system 3200which includes the electrical receptacle, for monitoring and control oflocal and remote loads, such as lights or remote lights of a home. Inthe example of FIG. 32, the system 3200 includes a breaker panel 3202, aplurality of electrical receptacles 3204, such as electrical receptacleshaving outlets and/or electrical receptacles without outlets, and a lowvoltage switch panel 3210.

The breaker panel 3202 divides an electrical power feed into electricalreceptacles 3204 (and thus the loads 3212, which are remote to thebreaker pan& 3202), and provides a protective circuit breaker for eachelectrical receptacle 3204. Each of the electrical receptacles 3204 maysupply power to the one or more loads 3212, such as one or more lightsin a room or a house.

In an example embodiment, the low voltage switch panel 3210 replacesline voltage switches, 8 way switches, 4 way switches, etc. The lowvoltage switch panel 3210 may include a single switch low voltage panelor multiple switch low voltage panels.

The low voltage switch panel 3210 may be connected to at least one ofthe electrical receptacles 3204 via at least one communication cable3208, such as a Power over Ethernet (PoE) communication cable.

In the example of FIG. 32, each electrical receptacle 3204 includes aWi-Fi module 3206, which allows the electrical receptacle 3204 tocommunication with a processor or a wireless device. For example, thedata collected at the electrical receptacle 3204 may be transmitted tothe processor, such as the low voltage switch panel 3210, or thewireless device by the Wi-Fi module 3206; the processor, such as the lowvoltage switch panel 3210, or a wireless device can control the remoteloads 3212 via the Wi-Fi module 3206. In an example embodiment, eachWi-Fi 3206 can be configured as an access point, a network extender,and/or a mesh network node. Each Wi-Fi module 3206 can include anantenna and applicable signal processors, hardware, and/or software. Inan example embodiment, a Wi-Fi chip can be used as the Wi-Fi module3206.

A plurality remote loads 3212, such as lights, may be groupedelectronically. The low voltage switch panel 3210 may control theplurality of remote loads 3212 simultaneously as a group, for examplewhen a plurality of downstream outputs or remote loads 3212 are groupedelectronically.

The safety features of the electrical receptacle 3204 are included in amulti-zone controller giving full safety protection to the remote loads3212, such as lights, that are desired to be controlled and monitored.

In an example embodiment, a keypad, touchscreen, or any suitable userinterface can be installed to control multiple loads within a room, suchas light switches, temperature controls, etc. In an example embodiment,the installer can run, e.g., 5 feet (152 cm) of CAT5 cable (or RS232 ortwisted pair) and the rest over wifi to the receptacles 3204 from thelighting circuit area (switch, keypad, multiple buttons, etc). Controlinformation can then be sent through the CAT5 to the receptacle 3204,which then controls and manages the power to the remote loads. Usercontrols can be made to the keypad or touch screen to control the loadsat the receptacle level.

In an example embodiment, the receptacle 3204 can be used so that anoutput contact/lead directly connects to a load such as a lightreceptacle, for safety, monitoring and control thereof. For example, atraditional light switch is a form of power control, but turning it onand off can generate arcs or sparks. The receptacle 3204 can protectagainst arc faults during on/off control of the lighting switches byapplying the zero crossing switching technology described herein,because the switches do not carry power until turned on. The processorof the receptacle 3204 can further control the dimming functions of thelight receptacle. Low voltage control of the light receptacle can alsobe performed by the processor 3210, for example using Power overEthernet (PoE). In the example of FIG. 32, a PoE communication cable3208 is used to connect a low voltage switch panel 3210 to a Wi-Fimodule 3206 of an electrical receptacle 3204, for example, theelectrical receptacle closest to the low voltage switch panel 3210. Byconnecting with the Wi-Fi module 3206 of an electrical receptacle 3204,the low voltage switch panel 3210 has access and control of allelectrical receptacles 3204.

In an example embodiment, the Wi-Fi module 3206 of the electricalreceptacles 3204 also can be configured to collectively define awireless Local Area Network (WLAN), using the wired Local Area Networkas a backbone (e.g. one of the power lines and/or low voltage lines),that can be used for local network access or Internet access. In anexample embodiment, a gateway 3310 (FIG. 33) is configured to verify andauthenticate access to the WLAN. The Wi-Fi modules 3206 are configuredas access points to the network.

The receptacle 3204 enables replacing a light switch by using an in-linereceptacle in accordance with example embodiments, whether thecontroller communicates with the receptacle via wires or wireless. Inanother embodiment, example embodiments of the receptacle can eliminatethe light switch by controlling the power at the receptacle level, byusing a logic command from a personal wireless device to communicatewith the receptacle. The receptacle further provides the safety andfault response functions to the load (e.g. lighting receptacle) asdescribed herein.

Another example embodiment includes a virtual control unit to shut off,which can include a dimmer, of a control switch for loads such as alight switch. An example embodiment can eliminate the traditionalcontrol switch. For example, the receptacle can be installed to act as afull control unit for downstream circuits. This has the benefit ofminimizing wiring in a room by enabling, e.g. 1-2 outlets to become thecommand and communication central for an entire room or large area.Communication to the virtual control unit can be performed using awireless communication device, for example.

In FIG. 32, all loads 3212 and lighting circuits of the system 3200 cantake advantage of the fault protection systems described herein. Forexample, the system 3200 allows arc fault detection on the switchingcircuits of the loads 3212 (e.g. lights).

In an example embodiment, the receptacle is “always powered off” untilinitiated by the processor in response to turning on using the keypad ortouchscreen or wireless communication device. Once it is determined thatthe safety checks are satisfied, the output power can isactivated/energized to source the selected load(s).

FIG. 33 is detailed schematic representation of an integrated controland monitoring system, in accordance with an example embodiment. FIG. 33(BLOCK 3300) is a schematic representation of an integrated powercontrol and monitoring system incorporating a breaker panel (3301),phase to phase communication units (3302); plug receptaclesincorporating their own CPU and power monitoring and control systems(3306-1); in-line receptacle units incorporating their own CPU and powermonitoring and control systems (3306-2); an external CPU and databasesystem (database may be accessible externally) (BLOCK 3312); a gateway(BLOCK 3310); and monitoring and control panels (which may be wired orwireless) (BLOCK 3308). FIG. 33 illustrates having input(s) for sensorsor any other device capable of sending a command to activate a specificpart of the receptacle, whether upper outlet, lower outlet in the caseof a plug-type receptacle, or downstream.

FIG. 33 illustrates integrated connectivity and the relationship betweendifferent apparatus within the system. FIG. 33 also highlights theconcept of behind and outside a secured contained logical and physicalspace (“fence”), the fence defining and restricting/limiting access toand between protected units. In an example embodiment, the fence isin-wall, e.g. installed behind drywall or other wall boundaries.

A gateway (BLOCK 3310), in an example embodiment, illustrates that allthe other communication is a “ring fence”; e.g. there is no external wayto communicate with each and every receptacle or inline control unitwithout going through the gateway or without being physically connectedto the electrical network of either the house, factory, plant, commercethat the system is installed into. The fence comprises a local wirednetwork, that is associated with the electrical receptacles forcommunication there between, and for other communication functions.

BLOCK 3301 is a circuit breaker panel.

ELEMENT 3301-A is a neutral feed.

ELEMENT 3301-B is live feed phase 1.

ELEMENT 3301-C is live feed phase 2. Note that live feed phase 2 has adifferent phase than live feed phase 1.

ELEMENT 3301-D are ungrounded conductor (Hot) Bus that circuit breakersmount to.

ELEMENT 3301-E are connection points for neutral (white).

ELEMENT 3301-F are connection points for ground.

ELEMENTS 3301-G are mounting brackets for breakers.

BLOCK 3302 also discloses phase-to-phase communication, in an exampleembodiment. In particular, communication between two phases 3301-B and3301-C is illustrated by means of two inline connection units (BLOCKS3302A and 3302B) which connect to each of the two phases throughconnection points logs (ELEMENTS 3301 H) which are connected to eachphase. These two units (BLOCKS 3302A and 3302B) incorporate their ownCPU and can communicate to each other, and in an example embodimentmonitoring and controlling voltage and/or current. The embodimentillustrates two phases, but there may be multiple phases and multiplerespective inline receptacles.

Connecting a phase-to-phase communication unit to each phase andinterconnecting each phase, allows for communication between each phase.The BLOCK 3302 acts as a bridge between the two or more hot power linephases. For example, the BLOCK 3302 can acts as a repeater,man-in-the-middle, etc.

Alternatively, in another example embodiment, ground (3301-F) to neutral(3301-E) wired communication can be used, replacing Block 3302. This isdescribed in greater detail herein.

BLOCK 3306-1 represents plug receptacle power line connection to abreaker panel and to the potential downstream apparatus and controldevices.

Although communications through the power line among each other isillustrated in this embodiment, the communications from the plugreceptacles may be through low voltage wiring, or any of a number ofwireless communication means and protocols.

Although plug receptacles with their own CPU (“Smart Receptacles”) havebeen described in BLOCK 3306 of the illustration, the downstream of3306-E may be traditional plug receptacles with, in an exampleembodiment, traditional tripping means.

BLOCK 3306-2 reflects power line communications to a breaker panel. Itis a similar to the scenario in BLOCK 3306-1, but instead of specifyingSmart Receptacles (with plug outlets), it illustrates a particularexample of communicating in-line control and monitoring units (withoutplugs) to be inserted and connected within the circuitry of lights,appliance or electrically powered apparatus.

Communication and actions can also be triggered by any input from sensoror switch or device capable of sending a command (BLOCK 3306-2F andBLOCK 3306-1F) and as illustrated in FIG. 34, BLOCK 3400C.

Although communications through the power line through the breaker panelto communicate with each other is illustrated in this embodiment, inanother example embodiment, the communications from the in-linereceptacles may be through low voltage wiring, or any of a number ofwireless communication means and protocols.

BLOCK 3306-1F and BLOCK 3306-2F illustrate that a command may be sent tocontrol end of the plugs or downstream apparatus to the receptacle orin-line control and monitoring unit, whether light, appliance or otherelectrical apparatus, the command being initiated by any kind of inputconnected to the receptacle or in-line control and monitoring unit (forexample originating from BLOCK 3306).

BLOCKS 3306-1 and 3306-2 also illustrate having more than one SmartReceptacle and having them able to talk to each other. On occurrence ofa fault, no matter from where it comes from, there may be logic that maysend a force trip to any upstream receptacle in the circuit. Detectionof wiring faults or any other faults that may be detected fromreceptacle to receptacle or alternatively from control units shown inBLOCK 3306-2 or a combination of both. Block 3304 provides directcommunicative connectivity between 3306-1 and 3306-2, if needed.

For example, if receptacle BLOCK 3306-1D detects a fault, it can beconfigured to send a signal to either 3306-1C or 3306-1B to ultimatelytrip themselves. Even on the downstream of receptacle BLOCK 3306-1D atany other electrically connected apparatus (including possibly atraditional receptacle), if BLOCK 3306-1D detects the fault, the logicbehind BLOCK 3306-1D will determine if a tripping signal should be sentto BLOCK 3306-1B or 3306-1C disabling partially or completely the entirecircuit.

In BLOCK 3306-1, top receptacle BLOCK 3306-A is stand-alone receptacleon a single stand-alone (dedicated) circuit (e.g. may be used for arefrigerator).

The three lower receptacles BLOCKS 3306-1B, 3306-1C and 3306-1D.

BLOCK 3306-1B is the first upstream receptacle going straight to thecircuit.

BLOCK 3306-1B has downstream connection to some lighting and is alsodownstream to another receptacle incorporating a CPU. That downstreamreceptacle is also controlling potential appliances.

And BLOCK 3306-1D which is part of the same circuit is also part ofcontrolling any other electrically powered apparatus. In case of afault, whether the fault occurs from D′s downstream, or any otherreceptacle it still detects a fault. Then depending on the logicinstigated by that particular fault, it may force trigger 3306-1B or3306-1C to trip.

In the above example, where BLOCK 3306-1 has been referenced, 3306-2 maybe replaced analogously, or one may have a combination of SmartReceptacles and inline control and/or monitoring units.

In an industry environment which upon detection of a fault, requires theentire line to be shut down, the system in accordance with exampleembodiments may shut down either just the downstream of D, or may send aforced shutdown to C either for its downstream or for its 2 plugs (upand down), or send a full shutdown to B, which in turn may send a falsetrip, tripping everything through the breaker.

As losing power may cause loss of communications, battery circuitry maybe incorporated in the receptacles to maintain communicationsfunctionality in the case of losing power.

BLOCK 3308 is an additional embodiment providing for monitoringinput/output control panels (e.g. being display screens) which allowsusers to monitor and/or control activity of the entire the house. Inthis embodiment, the control panel(s) can control any receptacle unit ordownstream circuitry.

This external CPU in BLOCK 3312 enables co-ordination and is differentfrom the CPU's referred to in BLOCK 3306-1 which illustrates anembodiment using plug receptacles (having outlets), and from BLOCK3306-2 which illustrates in-line voltage and/or current monitoring andcontrol receptacles without plug outlets.

The CPU may reside inside BLOCK 3308 in the Control and Monitoringpanel(s) or can be self contained.

BLOCK 3312 illustrates a CPU (e.g. processor) with a database stored ina memory. BLOCK 3312 may reside inside one of the monitoring controlpanels or be contained in its own separate box.

BLOCK 3312 acts as the central processing unit (“Brain”) acting asan-line CPU and Database system to host all the information, reportinglogic and control logic. This CPU 3312 is connected either wirelessly orwired into the system. Each of BLOCKS 3306-1, 3306-2 and 3608 have ownCPU and their own logic for their own usage.

However to monitor and/or control overall logic, interface andinter-relationships, the processor unit in BLOCK 3312 acts as anexternal processor providing control over the system.

BLOCK 3308 monitors the entire system. It illustrates additionalfunctionality of monitoring and control (send messages) including any ofthe monitoring and/or control panels having segregated information toact upon.

The independent monitoring and control panels BLOCKS 3308-A, 3308-B,3308-C, and 3308-D are shown as within their own secure area (“fence”).These monitoring and control panels illustrated are independent,enabling them, in an example embodiment if desirable, to be segregated,enabling the monitoring and/or control of specific I/O's. For example,this may be advantageous for use in multi family dwellings, and/or inenvironments where segregation is required such as business centerswhere one may want to separate the information, monitoring and/orcontrol of power for different organizations. If sharing the samebreaker panel, an example embodiment may segregate the informationand/or controlled functions that is shared, enabling the segregationwithin the entire system.

BLOCK 3310 is a gateway 3310 which in this particular embodiment isconnected to at least one of the monitoring units in BLOCK 3308 or maybe connected through BLOCK 3312. In this example, the logic may resideat the circuit breaker panel 3301. Alternatively, the gateway 3310 maybe connected through the 3306-1 and/or 3306-2. In an example embodiment,the gateway 3310 includes a Wi-Fi module for wireless communication andaccess to the fence. In an example embodiment, the gateway 3310 (orgateways) is the only way a device can wireless access the fence. In anexample embodiment, the monitoring and control panels may be operablyconnected wirelessly.

BLOCK 3308 connects to the breaker panel and to the gateway 3310. In anexample embodiment BLOCK 3308 can also connect through the communicationplane to BLOCK 3306-1 and BLOCK 3306-2.

Triggers to launch any actions can be controlled by sensors, switch orany other mode of communication that can give a command. Can be simpleswitch or information (smart message that sends identification of whotriggered the request to turn something on, then through communicationcan check data base and perform pre-established action for thatindividual, based on the data base of BLOCK 3312).

Both receptacle and inline units can be controlled by a mechanical orlogical device within the secure “fence”. Communications between objectscan be controlled as a function of information, parameters, criteria inthe database.

By connecting to the fence a device can have access to “everything”. Anexample embodiment of the fence includes a mini-network of low voltage(input from sensors). Another example embodiment of the fence iscommunication over the power lines, e.g. the hot power lines or theneutral power lines. Sensor information may be sent through low voltagewires or wirelessly, in example embodiments.

Alternatively, replacing the phase to phase unit of BLOCK 3302) asdescribed in some example embodiments, in an example embodiment there isa neutral-to-ground communication between the electrical receptacles,with or without communication with the circuit breaker panel 3301. Theneutral to ground communication comprises inserting a small currentbetween the white (neutral) and the ground in order to establish acommunication plane that is not going through breaker system, therebyeliminating the need for phase to phase communication because theneutral and the ground is common to all element. The small current isvoltage modulated to encode the desired communication signal.

Neutral to ground communication does not need to go through the circuitbreaker panel.

Normally in the industry, communications taking place through inlinewiring is interrupted if there is a power failure or disruption.Industry is typically limited to using the 110V carrier to transport acommunication message. The disclosed means and processes in accordancewith example embodiments eliminates this by inserting a low currentbetween the white and the ground; and use this for communications.Communication between phases is not required with the additionaladvantage of preserving the communications in case of a breaker trippingevent.

Industry is presently doing power line communications mainly by usinghot to ground communication and using the 110 v as a carrier.

This results in problems: a. 110 v carrier is not steady carrier,variation in power is numerous and may cause issues; b. in a breaker boxphase to phase communication is a major issue. An example embodimentbridges the hot line power phases on the communications side to ensurephase to phase communications is possible. Traditionally, using the hotas a method of communication, as soon as breaker trips, you losecomplete communication.

An example embodiment includes neutral-to-ground as a way of sendingdata communications. At least one contact is connected to neutral(white) and another contact is connected to ground. A processor isconfigured to send wired communications over the neutral-to-ground.

The advantages of neutral to ground communications are numerous. Thereare no phase to phase issues. By adding a separate power supply, forexample long life D battery (lithium) or rechargeable battery, thesystem can supply power if no power is provided by the power lines.Ground to neutral communication is not affected by breaker tripping.Another example embodiment includes a display screen having a userinterface that controls other circuits, not losing communication isimportant. The system is not limited by the 110 v carrier and theassociated limitations/problems. As the system is on Hot-Neutral smallDC carrier or, in an example embodiment, RF communication can be doneand allow for larger bandwidth to be transmitted.

Extra bandwidth on the power line communication taking place usingground and neutral wiring can be used to transmit data information or beused in isolation (e.g. using different frequencies) as a carrier fordifferent signal(s) including but not limited to wireless (e.g.regardless of protocol such as WiFi, Zigbee, Z-Wave, Thread, Bluetoothetc.).

In an example embodiment, ground-to-neutral is being used as acommunication conduit enabling the exchange of information betweendevices, for example by using a small (perhaps negligible such as <2%)portion of the bandwidth. The rest becoming available to be a carrier ofany other information.

In an example embodiment, ground-to-neutral circuit is used as acommunication conduit (sending/receiving data). In an exampleembodiment, a device acts as an interface enabling communications fromwireless to communicate with a ground-to-neutral communication circuit.In an example embodiment, ground-to-neutral circuit is used as awireless extender. In an example embodiment, ground-to-neutral circuitis shared by more than one communication function (e.g. isolationenables this).

With battery (e.g. lithion ion D battery, having a 20 year life, or arechargeable battery), communications can be maintained if there is apower failure and/or breaker trips.

An example embodiment includes insertion of small DC current overneutral and ground. Then sending data over the DC current. Anotherexample embodiment includes insertion of a RF modulation signal over theneutral-to-ground. For example, broadcast service such as Bell's serviceoffering “Bell Fibe” ™ is broadcasting their TV signals over WiFi. Anexample embodiments uses the disclosed system to broadcast TV signal(s)within homes over the neutral-to-ground, thereby decreasing thesignificant powerful radio waves current used.

Furthermore, Wifi would not be required when the converter incorporateda communication chip, complete TV broadcasting can be done in the homeusing the neutral-to-ground network.

As well, generally there are access points whereby someone will try tocover large areas with few access points (e.g. one). There are healthissues related to high power electromagnetic wave emissions. A personmay be affected by waves/radiation. There is need to solve wirelessradiation. There exists a need to reduce signal strength while providingwireless communications sufficient to satisfy increasingly higher speedrequirements. Reducing signal strength to provide coverage for smallerdistances such as five or ten feet may be advantageous.

An example embodiment includes power line communications whereby thedescribed electrical receptacle acts as a repeater, access point, meshnetwork node, etc. The RF signals are sent to a receptacle that isconfigured to be emitting from the wired connection backbone. A Threadprotocol can be a pipe (repeater). Each receptacle is configured tooperate in a similar manner, for example as a pipe, repeater. An exampleembodiment includes using power line communications whereby eachelectrical receptacle is a signal line distributor, reducing strength ofRFI, EMF. Access to the network is “localized” rather than transmittingover wide areas, sending data and acting as pipe. In another exampleembodiment a custom chip is used within the electrical receptacle thathas Wi-Fi functionality and a processor of the electrical receptacleintegrates the wireless communications within the backbone fence.

Another example embodiment is a neutral-to-ground communication devicethat comprises a plug that plugs into an electrical outlet. Thecommunication device can further include an Ethernet port or other wiredinterface so that further communication devices can communicate over theneutral to ground power lines, via the communication device. Thecommunication device can further include a wireless (e.g. Wi-Fi) moduleto wirelessly communicate with further communication devices, enablingthose communication devices to communicate over the neutral to groundpower lines. The communication device can be an Access Point, router,etc., in an example embodiment.

The access to the wired network backbone can move with the user. As thedevice of a user is accessing the particular Wi-Fi module and changesrooms, the same Wi-Fi signal comes from another electrical receptacle.The access point follows the user/device.

One aspect of this system is that there is a low cost device with powersafety. This means that low signals are used instead of WiFi relatedhigher radiation.

Existing industry systems do not bypass the breaker on breaker panelusing Ground to Neutral. Breaker only opens the hot in the industrysystems. An example embodiment of the communication system is bypassingthe breaker by using neutral to ground communications. Traditionallyindustry goes through line voltage, hot, for a single hot line phase.

In an example embodiment, the communication over the power line does notuse the hot, as it is not using 110 v for communications; rather neutralto ground is used. In another example embodiment, communication betweenthe electrical receptacles over a low voltage lines also bypasses thebreaker.

Regarding having a great deal of bandwidth available inneutral-to-ground communications to replace wireless. Rather than usingwireless, the system is transmitting data using the describedneutral-to-ground communications. An example embodiment includesreplacing wireless in rooms by using extra bandwidth available in thedescribed neutral-to-ground communications.

By establishing communication neutral-to-ground, the system isestablishing a communication pipe while using only a very smallpercentage of it (in bits versus gegabits). Accordingly, have largeexcess bandwidth enabling the system to distribute internet to all theoutlets that have communications in them. In each electrical receptacle(inline or smart receptacle) there is a wifi (wireless) chip to providecommunications in a room, which acts as a repeater. Similar to switchingfrom one cell to another when driving a car; mobile devices can have thesame handover operability for the rooms in a house. Rather than blastingwifi throughout a house, the system can use communication points of thecommunication fence to supply wifi to one room. Each room can have theirown wifi.

An example embodiment is not restricted to using “a portion” of theneutral-to-ground circuit and the “remainder” being used for a means ofcreating wifi repeating. An example embodiment uses neutral-to-groundentirely; and another example embodiment uses the “remaining” bandwidthleft over after a very small portion of the bandwidth is reserved forreceptacle-to-receptacle monitoring and control communications.

An example embodiment includes distributed repeaters onneutral-to-ground circuit without using some of the technology featuresdescribed herein (e.g., smart receptacles, tamper resistance, units). Inanother example embodiment, the neutral-to-ground communication isembodied by using a communication device that has a plug, and theneutral line is accessed through the neutral prong or pin of the plug,and the plug also has a ground prong or pin. In an example embodiment,the communication device is configured as an access point for wirelessand/or wired access to the fence. In another example embodiment, thecommunication device is part of a load or appliance that is accessingthe network through the neutral prong or pin. Another example embodimentdoes so in combination with the technology features described herein.

Typical devices in the industry, for example those that are plugged intoa wall or Ethernet, do not neutral-to-ground. Industry is accustomed tosending data communications over 110V or low voltage wires, they havenot traditionally considered communications over neutral-to-ground asthe industry would not put 110 v through neutral-to-ground. And so theindustry did not typically consider sending low voltage communicationsover neutral-to-ground.

In an example embodiment, the hot power line circuitry (110 v circuitry)is bypassed by the power line communication network. In an exampleembodiment, the neutral-to-ground circuit is used as a communicationscarrier using low voltage current. The neutral-to-ground circuit is usedfor the devices to talk to each other, as well as for external access(e.g. Internet, receiving a broadcast or RF signal).

An example embodiment does not require having to link all kinds ofphases. In a warehouse, there can be many phases, e.g. 12 daughterpanels with 2 or 3 phases in each. The neutral-to-ground circuit iscommon to all of them.

The modulation of the data, and sending current is described further. Adriver sends current. Modulation of current and changes on that currentthat sends data/information. On neutral-to-ground, the device can beconfigured to send communication signal that is almost equivalent topoint to point RF. In another example embodiment, the device isinjecting a small DC current for communications over neutral-to-ground.There is no 110 v being affected here. The device is configured to senda message on current travelling over neutral-to-ground or, in an exampleembodiment, an RF signal. The RF signal is transported over a small DCcurrent. Traditionally, on 110 v they are modulating data. The deviceeliminates the need to communicate on line voltage or wirelessly. Aswell, the communication network backbone does not require specialwiring. It is desirable to use existing power lines to create wirelessnetwork. No need to use Ethernet or line voltage lines.

A specialized chip can be used by each electrical receptacle which willreceive the neutral-to-ground communication, the complete bandwidth ofgigabyte(s) and on other side of chip it can then transmit fullgegabytes into a room. Typical industry chips are not available forneutral-to-ground.

An example embodiment includes a means or process which takes data whichis coming from neutral-to-ground, and re-transmits it through wireless,or vice-versa. An example embodiment uses a wireless-enabled chip totransmit through wireless. The chip takes data that originates fromneutral-to-ground and re-transmit through wireless. A combination chiptakes communications coming from neutral-to-ground and converts(transmits through) to wireless (wifi, zwave, zigbee), Bluetooth etc.

Referring still to FIG. 32 and FIG. 33, an example embodiment is a drycontact switch that results in a series of activities from theelectrical receptacles (e.g. smart receptacle or in-line unit). Aprocessor or microcontroller can be used to implement the functionality.An example embodiment uses dry contacts which can be shorted to effectactivities over extremely long distances. For example, a largemanufacturing assembly might cover 1-3 km. The system uses the fencebackbone. For example, at every e.g. 10-20 feet, there can be provided apanic button in parallel allowing any of a few hundred panic buttons tosend a “stop” message.

By shorting the two wires connected to two pins of the processor, andinstead of inline in the circuitry the two pins are shorted triggeringinformation to be sent to one (or more) of the receptacles or inlineunits. This can include a preset task or tasks assigned to a closedcircuit. So by shorting the two pins of a processor, a set ofinstructions would be executed by processor (or indirectly via at leastone other processor). In example embodiments this results in immediateshut down for safety purposes.

Furthermore this would allow for typical security system to be connectedto entire system through a single receptacle or in-line power unit, atthat point, keypad, iris scanner, fingerprint scanner, voice-facerecognition can be configured to transmit over twisted pair and theprocessor of that specific on line controller or receptacle can sendinformation to the CPU 3312 and trigger pre-programmed instructions.

Industry systems normally go to mechanical response versus to any of thepower on the circuit(s) to be controlled. Industry systems often useline voltage (at wall switch), the live 110 v lies there. On the otherhand, in some example embodiment the switching is low voltage or drycontact. Example embodiments can provide for cheaper installation andlonger distance that can be covered.

The dry contact switch refers to shorting two pins of a processor. Inresponse, to the shorting, information is sent to another device (e.g.down the line) so that something takes place as a result. The shortingof 2 wires within the system, in an example embodiment, results in aconsequential action that has been pre-determined. For example, theprocessor in the receptacle or inline unit, when the 2 pins are shorted,triggers a preprogrammed series of information to be sent to databaseengine, which when receives these instructions triggers series ofevents. For example, in a manufacturing plant when someone hits thepanic button, everything stops. This is different from existing industrypanic buttons which are connected to live power, and not through anelectrical receptacle as in example embodiments.

An example embodiment is a system which intelligently deals withshorting. The shorting triggers an action. Upon a short, a processor isspecifying a series of activities to be performed (based on databaseinformation). In traditional industry cases, it's usually one power lineaction as a result of a short. An example embodiment includes sendingdata down over a communication line upon detection of a short. Anexample embodiment implements a power control sequence in response tothe short. Hit button, triggers series or sequence of other shut downs.In an example embodiment, controlling the electrical receptacle itselfcan be a result of a short.

The receptacle that includes the dry contact switch can stay live inexample embodiments. The short of the two pins on a single receptaclecan send a message to a device that is unrelated to that specificreceptacle. The device can be another device that is contained in theentire system. By shorting the 2 pins on the processor of thatreceptacle, it can effect the closing/opening of something on anotherreceptacle or device depending on what has been programmed.

In an example embodiment, the shorting of the pins triggers a messagethat the receptacle is to send another message(s). When message isreceived by the processor, it does database check which, based oncondition detected, establishes and controls one or more receptaclesand/or devices to be shut down (or what should be turned on; such assiren, sound). The triggering is low power or no power at all (e.g., drycontact, short).

The button does not necessarily have power in it, it is a short withouta reference voltage. Note by shorting 2 pins on a processor, an actioncan be dictated or preprogrammed. In an example embodiment, that actionis to communicate with the main CPU 3312 (FIG. 33) and tell the main CPU3312 that there was a dry contact shut down by shorting the two pins.The main CPU 3312 in turn reacts to effect a major shutdown, when thisoccurs, to trigger “self destruct” sequence (shut down). A set ofinstructions which have been preprogrammed (or input in real time) areexecuted. The concept is that the dry contact is not only for thatreceptacle (as that receptacle might stay alive).

An example embodiment is a shorting of a device does not necessarilyresult in shutting down the particular outlet where the short tookplace.

An example embodiment is shorting of a device for anything other thanshutting off an outlet directly related to the short. An exampleembodiment includes communication means that a short took place, whichtriggers other activities, not necessarily shutting power at the outlet.The communication can be either through low voltage sending informationor just having dry contacts that by shorting them actions/instructionsare triggered.

In an example embodiment, the low voltage is connected to Iris scanner,before entering room scan Iris, system recognizes the person, etc. Twopins on processor which allows twisted pair to be connected to. Any timethe two twisted pairs are shorted a message is triggered which is sentto the database (e.g. of the CPU 3312) to determine and activates thenext action. This includes but not limited to acting as a panic button;or turning on specific lights; or based on identifying information,turning on or not turning on power to specific outlets. Some exampleembodiments are not limited to 2 dry contacts, can be more in someexample embodiments.

Having two dry contacts which as a result of shorting allows the systemto perform series of activities, sending information that contacts whereshorted, to the database where there are pre-determined set of actionsto be taken based on the contacts having been shorted, e.g., notnecessarily having anything to do with that particular outlet. Theoutlet can be configured for simply sending information to the powerline phase that the particular short took place.

Reference is still made to FIG. 33, wherein examples of smart applianceand interaction with the smart receptacles 3306-1 and/or in-line units3306-2 will now be described.

In appliances, example embodiments incorporate all described safetyfeatures of the described electrical receptacle outlets as well ascommunication ability to outlets/inline devices; and as well communicateto other appliances.

An example of a smart appliance is an oven having a camera. Based onface recognition, the oven won't be allowed to be turned on if it is achild who is recognized. The appliance is live, but the power button oruse of oven is not permitted if facial recognition detected kid. Otherdevices can be used, such as biometric reader, finger print scanner,recognizing a mobile communication device and its associated identifier.

Example embodiments implement further safety features. The appliance,when turned on by the button, does not get any power from the electricalreceptacle if the user is recognized to be a child. Other devices can beused, such as biometric reader, finger print scanner, recognizing amobile communication device and its associated identifier.

In the case of an in-line unit 3306-2, in an example embodiment, acomputer is hardwired, and the computer is provided a power profile ofentire room, which can be controlled by the computer.

Typical industry breakers cannot communicate that the breaker hastripped. An example embodiment uses breakers communications that abreaker has tripped.

In an example embodiment, a power monitoring and control unit can beembedded in the circuit breaker panel 3301 in the same manner asembedded in an appliance, and upon trip, the circuit breaker panel 3301can send message to entire system or to external unit/medium via thegateway unit, that the breaker has been tripped.

In an example embodiment, when an appliance wishes to be turned on, amessage is communicated to a smart receptacle 3306-1. The smartreceptacle 3306-1 is configured for testing if there is no power,concluding that a breaker has been tripped, e.g. voltage or current notat a specified level or within a threshold, or no voltage or no current,and communicating a message that breaker has tripped. It is possible toidentify which breaker using information of knowing which circuit doesnot have power, since that is the hot power line phase that theelectrical receptacle is installed.

An example embodiment includes monitoring current and voltage anddetermining that a breaker has been tripped, and sending suchinformation or outputting to an output device, e.g. display screen.

As the inline fence communication is not breaker sensitive in exampleembodiment (the receptacle is sensitive for power, but not forcommunication) in the event that someone tries to plug a load into areceptacle or turn on a load from an inline control unit and no power isavailable, then the electrical receptacle can send message to anin-house screen, or wirelessly to an external source like a cell phoneor user's device or to a monitoring station, that no power is available,e.g. “check breaker”.

In an example embodiment, referring still to FIG. 33, 3306-1 and 3306-2can determine that a breaker was tripped and can send a message “tripbreaker”. Alternatively, the communication device can be embedded in thebreaker and the breaker itself can send message and based on logic inbreaker it can be configured to also send out the reason for thetripping.

An example embodiment includes a breaker (or circuit breaker panel) thatis configured to transmit information generated within breaker. Thedescribed the technology for electrical receptacles can be incorporatedinto a breaker in an example embodiment. For example, the breaker cancommunicate its load, potential power availability before a trip,allowing for reports to be done, on screen or printed of the entirepower consumption circuit by circuit, or communicated to a monitoringsystem. An example embodiment includes adding breakers as communicatingdevices within the Internet-Of-Things (IoT) market. An exampleembodiment includes a breaker configured for collecting the informationrelated to the tripping. An example embodiment includes the breakercommunicating that information. An example embodiment includes thebreaker being within the secure communication fence.

FIG. 33 illustrates communication within an appliance. As appliances areable to be connected via a smart receptacle and/or inline communicatingunit, not only from power standpoint, but also communication standpoint.The system (BLOCK 3300) does not preclude communication via a powerline. Further, the inline power monitoring and control board can beincorporated in an appliance; thereby enabling communications with theother receptacle (in-line units, smart receptacles, breakers).

In the case of an appliance having a battery system the power monitoringunit can be configured to detect 100% battery charge and shut downbattery charging from the system. The electrical device can stop thepower and send message (“unit fully charged”), the industry does nothave such communications in theirs. The electrical receptacles stopsproviding power (e.g. deactivates the applicable TRIAC) in response tothe battery being fully charged.

In an example, this does more than protecting against over charging, thesystem stops charging and continue automatically when there is adecrease in battery, and when the plug is plugged in.

FIG. 34 is a communications diagram, which illustrates an exampleembodiment. FIG. 34 is a block diagram of the possible communicationactivities deriving from electrical activities that are self triggeredor remotely triggered within the integrated system illustrated in FIG.33.

BLOCK 3410 illustrates a gateway control unit which acts as middlewareor a hub, in that it can connect input source to another existingexternal controlled system. In an example embodiment, the gatewaycontrol unit 3410 describes the functionality of the gateway 3310 (FIG.33). In an example embodiment, the gateway control unit 3410 is the onlyway in which external devices can be authorized to access the fence,either wired or wirelessly. Applicable passwords and/or IEEE 802.11protocol implementation can be used to verify and authenticate access tothe fence. In an example embodiment, the gateway control unit 3410 canbe configured as an authentication server, such as a Radius and/or AAAserver.

Whereas BLOCK 3410 illustrates activity triggering outside a fence;BLOCK 3400B illustrates command sent by a unit contained within thefence. BLOCK 3400A may be a user input; BLOCK 3400B may be a sensorinput; BLOCK 3400-A may be from an external input source such as manualinput, mobile device, existing control unit, etc.

BLOCK 3406 shows that a Smart Receptacle or an in-line control unit (inexample embodiments with or without communications capability) may beactivated in multiple ways:

BLOCK 3406-C illustrates a receptacle having a load connected to it.This triggers the communication activity of sending power to the actualunit. Alternatively the triggering of the activation of the receptaclecan be done by an external device, 3406-A whether a sensor or a switch,or any capable device.

The same device may either activate a receptacle, or an in-line controlunit in 3406-B.

Upon the activation of an inline control monitoring unit or a plugreceptacle, Block 3402 illustrates that a message can be sent (3402-C)over wire or over wireless.

3402-A shows the case of wired with an older breaker panel butincorporating phase to phase communications from FIG. 33 (BLOCK 3302)whereby one device per phase would be installed to link communicationbetween the phases.

In an example embodiment, a message is sent to the CPU 3312 whichretrieves from the database the actions required upon either areceptacle being activated or the inline control.

This information is used by one or more of the display panel units(BLOCK 3400A being equivalent to BLOCK 3308 in FIG. 33).

In order to inform one or more users or one or more systems, that aspecific receptacle, for example, was activated. Furthermore uponsending a message to an external device or system, the system may waitfor confirmation or further instructions.

The triggering can be done using inline control monitoring asillustrated in BLOCK 3406.

The logic determines whether it was safe to activate or not.

The inner logic inside the CPU of the two apparatus (either or bothSmart Receptacles or in-line control & monitoring units) are determiningwhether or not it is safe to proceed, or by connecting to the CPU unitshown in 3302-D.

Where 3400A or B the message may come from a display panel unit in whichcase it is sent over wired or wireless to the unit control processor,which has to run a safety check to see if its safe to power the specificplug receptacle or inline control unit receptacle. If it is safe, thenin the logic of 3406 a message is sent to the plug receptacle or theinline control receptacle unit via wire or wireless (3406) and at thatpoint the information to start the downstream control is sent.

3400-C shows a list of potential control actions. 3404 lists potentialdownstream items that may be remotely controlled; e.g. lighting,appliances, electrically powered apparatus.

Accordingly, this enables the turning on-off, or activating orde-activating, dimming and/or augmenting, and the sending of messages.

In an example embodiment, there is a complete series of triggers thatcan launch any of the actions. These can be controlled by sensor(s),switch(s) or any mode of communication that may launch a command. Twowires transport a signal which may be triggered by a simple switch orsmart message information which identifies the person who sent therequest to turn something on, then based on information about individualappropriate actions can be taken.

Both receptacle and inline unit may be controlled by logical devicewithin the fence. Logic in CPU 3312 can be configured to determine theaction(s) to be taken.

By connecting to 110 v circuitry, all information is available.

An example embodiment also may include low voltage network within thesystem (inputs from sensors in blocks 3306-1 and 3306-2 may be lowvoltage). May send communications wireles sly or through low voltagewire. All the apparatus are all connected through ground, neutral andconnection to a 110 v phase. In an example embodiment, communicationsbetween devices are going through the breaker panel to communicate witheach other.

FIG. 35 illustrates a processing task flowchart of criteria andactivities related to initiation of power upon a user-initiated or loadrequest (Step 3500). At the first step 3510, a request has beeninitiated (for example from an input screen, or remote gateway, orswitch on a wall to turn on or off power to the circuit of a receptacleor an in line monitoring and control unit; or a plug is plugged in to aparticular receptacle, or request for the downstream on a receptacle.

For example if there is a single string of lights, the entire stringcould be turned off remotely. Each circuit is independent so data basecan include instructions to power and/or deactivate power for aparticular circuit on a receptacle (such as upper outlet, lower outletor downstream) or in line unit. Turning on or disconnecting power may betriggered by a number of events, including but not limited to: pluggingor unplugging a load; sending a command to an in line unit; or sending acommand to the downstream of a receptacle or in line unit.

In addition to processes to be initiated upon the turning on of power,there are circumstances as well, upon which it may be desirable to haveinitiation of processes which take place upon disconnection of power.

Devices may be unplugged for a variety of reasons. Although the actionof unplugging a load may not be prevented, a message (including but notlimited to audio, display, video etc.) could be transmitted to otherdevices, outlets, receptacles, in line monitoring and control units, anduser(s) (or to a cell phone, an alarm monitoring company, etc.)communicating that a particular critical device has been unplugged; forexample in the case of a critical device such as a dialysis machine,artificial respirator, etc. being unplugged.

Similarly, if such device(s) is hardwired into an in line control unitrather than being plugged into an outlet or receptacle, a communicationmight be initiated and for example an affirmation response or a securitypassword might be required prior to permitting the power to the deviceto be disconnected.

Step 3515 establishes whether power is being turned on or off. If poweris being turned off, the process continues to the power down sequence.Step 3560 considers safety issues (including but not limited to groundfaults, arc faults, faulty wiring, over current etc.) related to turningon or off equipment and then proceeds to step 3580 which will enable ordisable the receptacle or in line monitoring and control unit, orspecific circuit of each. If at step 3515 power is being turned on, thenthe next step proceeds to 3525 to see if power to the receptacle isavailable. Step 3516 checks the database at step 3550.

If yes, proceeds to a first set of safety procedures; 3520 send messagethat it is unsafe to start (3540). If safe to start, proceeds to 3550for a data base check. At step 3557 database commands are executed; ifany of these commands are a start or a stop, then proceeds to step 3560;otherwise the process continues to step 3570. If it's allowed, theprocess continues to proceeds to step 3560, to enable the power. Oncepower is enabled, the circuit becomes monitored by the process in FIGS.36A and 36B.

Once a load request has been initiated, at step 3525, the voltage isverified to be as expected; for example, 110 v or 220 v (or within anacceptable range of the expected voltage. Should the voltage not be asexpected (block 3527), a message is sent to inline display screen(s) orthrough the gateway to any external device indicating that the breakeris tripped. In an example embodiment, the circuit breaker is tripped,and/or the power to the outlet is disabled. In an example embodiment,there is a system measuring a voltage on a circuit, and upon determiningthat the voltage is not within an acceptable voltage value or(predetermined) range, communicating that the breaker has been tripped.

If the power is as expected, the process continues to block 3530 to testfor one or more safety conditions. At step 3520, should any of theillustrated faults in block 3535 (examples only) be established, then itis determined that it is not safe to start, and the process continues toblock 3540 whereby an appropriate error message notification istransmitted to an e.g. display screen (3308) or through a gateway unit(3310) to any external device. At this point power is not provided tothe appliance or load which may have been plugged in.

At step 3520, if it is determined that it is safe to proceed to initiatepower, at 3550 a database check is performed (as illustrated withexamples in block 3555) providing criteria determining whether theparticular outlet or appliance should be powered, whether otherequipment or appliances should be powered or have their power disabled,whether a particular sequence of turning power on or off (de-activated)should proceed, and more.

Following the database check (Block 3550), at step 3560 if the start ofthe particular appliance or load is not permitted based on the databasecheck, then step 3570 proceeds, transmitting an appropriatecommunication to a displace screen (3308) or through the gateway unit(3310) to any external device. Providing of and/or disabling of power tooutlets, receptacles, devices, and/or inline units proceeds according tothe database criteria established and identified in 3555.

Following the database check (Block 3550), at step 3557, should any loador device require power, then the 3500 routine would be initiated on asequence of its own for the particular device(s) identified in thedatabase.

Following the database check (Block 3550), at step 3560, if the start ofthe particular appliance or load is permitted, then at step 3580, acommand is sent to activate power to the receptacle or the inline unit.In an example embodiment, information related to the activation may becommunicated to any output means such as an inline display units (3308)and/or through the gateway unit (3310) to any external device.

Upon power being activated the processes outlined in FIGS. 36A and 36B,to monitor the ongoing integrity of the circuit is initiated. Theprocesses in FIGS. 36A and 36B apply to all units which may have beenactivated as a result of the database check at step 3550 as illustratedin 3555.

In FIG. 35, the process constantly waits for load request(s) and for theoccurrence of possible faults (e.g. Gfi, Afci, faulty wiring,overcurrent, etc.). Block 3555 is organized by different categories ofinformation in a database that is being checked. Block 3555 a set ofpossible instructions preprogrammed in a database (alternatively,dynamically input by user) to allow or disallow turning on either anappliance or plug load.

For example: there can be groups for specific appliance in discussionsuch as time of day or specific user restrictions or based on thecircuit availability information or specific power requirement for thatequipment. If there is not sufficient power available for that specificequipment, is there a priority list that would shut down temporarilyother equipment to provide sufficient power for thisequipment/appliance.

In an example embodiment, the system can therefore implement an“acceptable” overload. This differs with some existing standards orfactor-of-safety industry practices that require conservative breakerselection, since those methods cannot react quickly or cut off power atthe particular fault.

If there is no issue, e.g. wiring not heating up, integrity of circuitis ok, the system operates as no longer. In other words, the systemdesign is no longer bound by existing 80% “safety” standards. Someexample control of the breaker trip may even exceed 100%, for example goto 105% (acceptable “overload”).

Referring again to FIG. 33, note that there are loads that aredownstream to the receptacles. A smaller version of power control andmonitoring unit can be further than downstream into electricalcomponents and talk directly to the load (e.g. appliance).

In an example embodiment, a toaster can have low voltage batterycontrolling circuitry without power, and upon time to start toasting canbe configured to talk to the receptacle. This can have advantages:limiting power consumption to minimum; providing outstanding safety asalthough appliance is connected, it would not receive power untilrequired (and power safety features). There are additional green energysavings (besides safety).

All power control and monitoring can be concentrated on single circuitand applied to the appliance which becomes arc fault, ground fault,surge, over current etc protected as well as supplying power to theappliance itself.

Any appliance, engine, pump, anything functioning with electricity, canbe equipped with functionality, subset of micro circuitry. Bringinghouseholds, commercial, industry—closer to complete power control.Circuit gets closed as lever is brought down (live) but electricity isalways there with possibility of getting electrocuted. For example, aknife closes the circuit. As soon as toast pops back up, there is nolonger any power provided by the electrical receptacle. In the presentcase, a utensil accessing toast would have no possibility of shortingcircuitry as power is off. Circuit can be embodied in any appliance.

An example embodiment is an appliance decides when to turn power on fromthe electrical receptacle. A battery can be used to keep logic controlalive. There is no 110 v until toaster lever pushed down; then withinfew milliseconds when lever up again, sends message that power no longerneeded. To prevent a person from being electrocuted, when lever off, thetoaster communicates with plug and gets power when needed only. Thecircuit board can have small battery to keep logic on. Until lever atbottom, no power. In an example embodiment, toaster can communicatethrough the ground-to-neutral communication phase (if it has ground).The toaster can configured to send low dc voltage to keep logic controlof the plug up.

Example embodiments can require one circuit board, rather than themultiple circuit board devices described herein. The device needs onlyone, in an example embodiment.

An example embodiment is a means enabling an ‘appliance’ (e.g. toaster)to have safety features and not be powered until the processor of theelectrical receptacle decides it is ok to do so based on safety featuresor other criteria, and upon said decision activate power to theappliance.

An example embodiment is an appliance comprising of a CPU monitoringcurrent and/or voltage having communication means to receive externalinstruction to turn power on.

Other appliances or loads can be used in other example embodiments, andare not limited to a toaster, for example. Extend one step further the“no juice until needed” by bringing it to the appliance.

Since there is unit to unit (receptacle or inline units) communication.Circuit starts at breaker, all receptacles talk to each other; and fromone to the other they know the current that the other one is expecting.If not getting what is expected, then there is a wiring issue and canestablish preprogrammed events.

Conditions, actions based on conditions, profiles. When there is meansto identify a person, the system (electrical receptacles) can becustomized to that person's needs. The system can restrict others basedon their profiles, so that power access to an electrical receptacle isrestricted. For example, an appliance such as a stove or oven can beconfigured with a camera or biometric reader to identify the person whois turning on the appliance. The identification of the user can beverified against the database. For example, the person turning on theappliance may be a minor that is under 18 years old, and appliance willrequest the electrical receptacle to turn on power, and the electricalreceptacle will not activate power upon receiving the instruction.Similarly the electrical receptacle will activate power to thereceptacle if the person is authorized (e.g. authorized adult). Thedatabase can be stored as a white list and/or a black list, in exampleembodiments.

In an example embodiment, the CPU of the electrical receptacle knows thecurrent on the circuit when a device is being plugged in, so ifexceeding 15 A when plugging in a device, do not activate the electricalreceptacle and can send message to closest screen unit that haveexceeded capacity of circuit (e.g. total 15 A). When another device isplugged in, while not allowing the “offending” device to be plugged in,the another device may be activated with power if permitted.

The system can recognize power losses, and identify which wires have aproblem. An example embodiment is an apparatus within a circuit talkingto each other, preventing overload and electrical fires by monitoringcurrent all the way through. Even if improper wiring (too small gauge)the system can identify and then eliminate potential electrical fire.Electrical fires, accompanied by power losses, the CPU of the electricalreceptacle know where power has issued and so does not turn power on.With the described systems, a designer can exceed 80% of 15 A safely,and the system can prevent overload specifically.

In example embodiments, using a processor can be used to optimize powersent to device. For example, deliver specific wattage based on voltageand current the device wants to receive. This provides modification ofthe signal in real time. The electrical receptacle can be configured tooptimize and deliver power actually sent to device to its performancecharacteristics. For example, if an engine works best at 12.3 A at 110v; if voltage fluctuates to 120 v, the electrical receptacle can beconfigured to reduce to 11.7 A, for example. The electrical receptaclecan dynamically always ensure target power is provided to engine forexample.

In an example embodiment, the electrical receptacle can be configured tocontrol both voltage and current delivered; therefore constantly modifyand send what's ultimately and optimally required. For example, skippingphase, or even injecting additional current from a power source tocompensate.

For an appliance, in an example embodiment, the electrical receptaclecan attenuate or enhance based on voltage variation. If current isoptimal is there then any traditional system would work; but if powerfluctuates, the described electrical receptacle can deliver specificpower, and control current and can let voltage fluctuate, and make surepower never changes with respect to a target power.

Another example embodiment includes attenuating or enhancing(increasing) wattage to optimize use of appliances, using an electricalreceptacle.

Another example embodiment provides further protection when within theappliance: for example the feed from the wire is encapsulated in awaterproof environment so that when the 110 v (example) circuit isopened no person can get electrocuted as it still is not closed by thewater infiltration to live wires. One aspect is that the high voltageside is isolated so that the water penetration cannot close the circuit.

Rather than destroying the circuit of the toaster (frying the circuit)the circuitry detects the ground fault and shuts down (i.e. stays “off”,doesn't turn on the triac) the power to the toaster. For an appliancesuch as a hair dryer, line voltage side is completely isolated

If GFI the low voltage side gets disconnected completely.

In an example embodiment, one set of instruction that can bepreprogrammed. One step further is a smaller version of a circuit boardand providing with communication unit to appliance manufacturers. Forexample, a toaster can be equipped with system. It would have zero poweruntil push lever all the way down, coordination between the appliancesafety system of the toaster and the circuit board can be achievedeither with prioritization or timing. Then toaster would communicatewith the plug (e.g. request 110 v). When toast comes out, itcommunicates in milliseconds and it becomes tamper proof.

Devices, appliances (toasters, oven, etc.) can be safe with power notbeing turned on unless there is no safety fault. An example embodimentis a safest appliance whereby power isn't turned on unless no fault. Anexample embodiment is the appliance is communicating with the outlet.

An example embodiment allows different receptacles and/or inline unitsto talk to each other and also verify that the voltage and currentexpected to arrive is actually arriving; and if not, then declaring thatthere is a fault and the cause/reason, and communicating that thatreason should be investigated. Therefore shutting down and, in anexample embodiment, sending a message to investigate. For example,faulty wiring, faulty equipment, etc. Until this is resolved, the powerwill not be turned back on.

Block 3510: examples of sending a request to equipment/appliance tostart a task includes but is not limited to turning on elements fortoaster; turning on elements of a stove; turning on lights. If someoneplugs in an appliance in a receptacle, this makes the switch turn on andrequires an action.

Sending trip to breaker: In the database, if an event is of suchmagnitude that it's safer to turn entire circuit off. Refer 3300 whichrefers to 3306-1 and 3306-2 which illustrates on a single circuit smartreceptacle and inline communications module can be interspersed, mixedmatched.

FIGS. 36A and 36B illustrates a processing task flowchart (3600) ofongoing monitoring of the integrity of power line circuitry and responseto fault(s), and associated block circuit diagram (3650-1). Block 3640is a starting point describing ongoing monitoring facility of circuitintegrity. The process loops monitors for faults, including but notlimited circuit overloads, until a fault is found. If fault is found,then step 3645 proceeds with a data base check at block 3655, whichinitiates a fault sequence shut down. If fault detected at step 3645 isan overload, at step 3649 the entire circuit is examined. Bothoccurrences trigger access to the data base but different sections.However, one is searching for a string sequence shutdown 3655; the otheris looking for information related to alternative priority access toavailable current on the circuit 3651.

Example, if equipment on the circuit can be temporarily cut off, to giveanother plugged in device priority. After step 3652 a user may beinformed of an action taken (step 3653) after which the integrity of thecircuit is re-established therefore returning to step 3640 (step 3654).

For example, in a kitchen, should a device, appliance require power, butsuch power would exceed circuit safety considerations or specifications,then a refrigerator could be turned off for a few seconds or minutes,and then be turned back on again, when there is sufficient current.Accordingly, data base information may provide either a specific shutdown sequence due to an electrical fault, or the circuit load balancingand/or prioritizing can take place if there is an overload. In the database for example with medical equipment one could have a prioritysequence for certain equipment over others which are not as dangerous toshut off, or for a limited time, etc. The disclosure herein can also beapplied to load leveling and peak shaving applications. Upon detectionof a fault, at step 3658 a message can be sent to a display screen orgateway.

In case of power overload, a circuit balancing message can becommunicated (3653) that temporarily a particular piece of equipment hadits power disabled in order to allow another specific load to be powered(as specified in the data base) and prevent circuit overload. The database can include sophisticated If/Then conditions.

Step 3659 examines and acts upon if a major fault is detected. If so, aforce trip can be sent to the circuit breaker causing it to trip.

In an example embodiment, on one side continually monitor if there is anew load request. If there is, then call subroutine 3510. If there isnot, continue monitoring. At same time, constantly monitor the safety ofthe circuitry (e.g. arc fault, ground fault, faulty wiring, etc.). Inorder to do so, constantly monitor if all the units along a circuit arereceiving the expected voltage and current based on the circuit loads;if true, then loop back to 3640; if false make decision at step 3649which can go to 3655 and do a database dip (step 3655) to check for theshutdown sequence required based on the event that was monitored. Atstep 3658, send a message to the closest screen or any unit programmedthrough the gateway that has been pre-programmed to receive thatmessage. In case of major fault the first unit in the circuit sends aforce trip to the breaker at which point the circuit is fully shut down.In order to be re-established it needs to go back to 3510 procedure forrestarting. Step 3658 sends an error message. Step 3659 sends force tripto the breaker.

Decision step 3649 can determine if the fault is due to overload, if sostep 3651 checks database for overload management task or sequence oftasks. Step 3652 executes overload management task or sequence, step3653 sends applicable error message, and then step 3654 proceeds to step3640, e.g. continuous monitoring.

System 3650-1 in FIGS. 36A and 36B explains how the circuit integrityactually works and the relationship between each and every one of them.When the breaker (3301, FIG. 33) is intelligent, it becomes a devicewithin the fence as illustrated FIG. 34. The breaker 3301 would be thefirst one in line, in an example embodiment. In the event that thebreaker is smart breaker with the circuitry described herein, thebreaker is part of the secure fence communications network.

In FIGS. 36A and 36B and system 3650-1, intentional tripping of thebreaker can also be implemented. Smart breaker would not need to controlthe receptacles 1 to 8. It can communicate directly withappliances/loads in an example embodiment.

Cross-interaction can be implemented. Normally a breaker trip and wouldresult in shutdown of everything. In the present case the system can beconfigured to shut down certain receptacles based on load createdissues; without tripping breaker.

FIGS. 36A and 36B, beginning at 3600 discloses ongoing circuit integritymonitoring. The intelligence being on all the equipment, e.g.,receptacles and/or inline units having a CPU monitoring and controllingcurrent and voltage. The circuit allows for a complete monitoring andacting on all possible events that can occur on an electrical circuit;including but not limited to faults such as ground faults, arc faults,overload conditions, etc. In an example embodiment, specific action(s)can be triggered based on a data base preprogrammed action plan. Block3600 monitors power quality and safety conditions on a continuous basis.Block 3650-1 is a graphic representation of an electrical circuit behindthe fence. 3650-1 describes units on circuit receiving expected voltageand current.

Figure 3650-1 is a representation of an electrical circuit illustratinga receptacle(s) and/or in line monitoring and control unit(s), showingthat the voltage and current can be monitored at each and every step,and detecting the fault if the expected voltage or current are not whatis expected (e.g. due to faulty wiring). The relationship betweenreceptacles and in line units is primordial. In case of major event,system can force breaker to trip.

If a breaker itself incorporates the processes or means hereindisclosed, within the security fence, then breaker device itself can beincorporated within security fence. Monitoring the interaction of everyunit in a circuit and being able load balance, shed off load based ondata base priorities.

In FIGS. 36A and 36B at Block 3650-1, the concept of each receptacle orinline unit are ordered in sequence on a circuit and they interact witheach other:

-   -   They exchange load, voltage, current and safety condition    -   From one to the other in sequence with the system it is now        possible to calculate expected voltage and current and compare        it to actual values and therefore being able to detect abnormal        losses, detecting potential hazards and taking action based on        the preprogram sequence of event in the database.    -   Based on the gravity of the fault certain units can be shutdown        or a message may be sent to unit 1 to send a trip to the        breaker.    -   In the event that the breaker is equipped with the logic and        communication circuitry than it becomes part of the calculation        and string of actions.    -   In all event, messages can be sent to the monitoring screens        (3308) or to the gateway unit (3310) for external apparatus        depicting the events and their gravity.    -   This functionality can also be used for load measurements and        prevent breaker trips, preserving the integrity of the entire        circuits and unexpected shutdowns.

Step 3640 continuously monitors both safety and load requests (3510,FIG. 35). As long as there are no issues detected at step 3645, anotherdecision is made at step 3650 which can proceed so that the monitoringwill continue (3640) continuously monitoring if there is a load; ifrequest for new load it will call on 3525 (FIG. 35). The information at3640 will know the load went down; but went down in the expected manner(not a fault). Decision step 3650 can also determine that the units onthe circuit 3650-1 are not receiving the expected voltage and current,and proceed to step 3655.

The process illustrated maintains the integrity of the circuit; canprevent at minimum unexpected shut downs, unexpected breaker trips; andbecause of sensitivity of software the electrical receptacle can controlthe trips far quicker than any breaker can. In the event the breakerdoes not have logic and communications circuitry inside it, then thefirst receptacle or inline unit on the circuit will act as a gateway andwill have ability to send forced trip to the breaker if required.

FIG. 37A illustrates a block circuit diagram of another exampleembodiment of the system 3650-1, which further includes smartappliances. FIG. 37A shows appliances included to network of receptaclesand/or in line monitoring and control units. The sensors monitoring theinputs and the outputs of the voltages, can send messages to the localintelligence of the appliance.

FIG. 37 illustrates an example embodiment of microcircuitry that can beintegrated into an appliance or another powered device. Shown are BLOCKS3700, 3701, 3702, 3703, 3704, 3705, 3706, 3707, 3708, 3709, 3710, 3711,3712, 3713, 3714, 3720 and 3721. Block 3700 describes anotherembodiment, namely a minimized version of the circuit board with thecapability of being integrated inside appliances. The circuit boardincludes a processor and memory. The functions that are taking place aresimilar to the ones taking place in a receptacle, but specific tocontrol a single power input. This can allow the complete monitoring ofvoltage and current within an appliance, allowing therefore the securityfence to be pushed back in one step further into the electric circuitry.It can be used both independently just to monitor power and currents andpower faults, or can be used in conjunction with the communicationmodule, thereby allowing it to be used within the communication matrixreferred to in FIG. 33, 3306-1F and 3306-2 F, being within fence whilehaving access within the communication matrix.

Block 3710 overall shows the complete functionality of the system thatallows for constant monitoring the faults, allowing the added securityof making an appliance Ground and Arc fault proof, thereby extending thesafety net one step further. Block 3701 indicates an input trigger by atouch sensor. Upon the sensor activation, the CPU engages with thepreprogrammed control and through the optional communication unit couldrequest power from the receptacle or in line control unit to thespecific appliance.

Message can be sent to a graphic display within the fence referred to inFIG. 33, step 3308, or within the appliance itself on its own graphicdisplay.

Upon database verification as shown on FIG. 35, at step 3510, if it hasbeen established that the power is acceptably delivered, then at thispoint the system is now one step deeper downstream into the circuitryshown in 3600.

BLOCK 3707, 3708 or 3709 refer to the logic within an appliance andinteraction taking place within the circuit. BLOCK 3710 refers to thepossibility of interacting with wireless communications interface to usethe gateway or any communication interface within fence to remotelystart appliances. BLOCK 3720 uses the system gateway (FIG. 33, step3310) to allow external source(s) to send commands to a specificappliance. The system allows an appliance to be controlled directlyremotely (for example, from smart phone devices, tablets or othermeans).

FIG. 38 illustrates a processor that implements a dry contact switchthat can be manually operated. By shorting each member of a dry contact(pins 69A and 69B in this Figure, set 70), a preprogrammed sequence inthe processor can now be applied, triggering an action on FIG. 35 at3510; whether it is for a turned on or turned off event; or thetriggering of any preprogrammed procedure. An advantage of such a systemis the ability to cover longer distances; at that point the processor isconfigured to detect a short circuit. As long as circuit is opened, noreaction will be triggered. If circuit is already closed, then theopening the processor can be configured to generate a reaction andexecute a command(s) within processor of receptacle or in line unit,triggering an action on FIG. 35 at 3510.

FIG. 39 illustrates side views of a physical representation of single-,double-, and triple-circuit breakers, respectively shown left-to-right,with connectors enabling power line communication, along with a frontview on the right that is common to these embodiments. Each circuitbreaker is also connected to a hot power line, and opening of thecircuit breaker opens the hot power line. In the example embodimentshown, the circuit breaker has a respective connection pin to neutral3904 and connection pin to ground 3902. In an example embodiment, thecircuit breaker can further include the circuit board microcircuitry asdescribed herein, include a processor and a memory. In an exampleembodiment, the processor can control (open or close) the respective oneor more breakers.

By connecting the circuit breaker to neutral and/or ground, power linecommunication can be achieved. In an example, because the circuitbreaker is equipped with the described microcircuitry in accordance withexample embodiments, the circuit breaker can be part of thecommunication fence. In an example embodiment, the circuit breaker isconfigured to communicate over hot power line to neutral. In anotherexample embodiment, the circuit breaker is configured to communicateover neutral power line to ground. In another example embodiment, thecircuit breaker is configured to communicate over hot power line toground.

Another industry problem in the electrical world is the difficulty todetect on regular circuitry problems that may occur in future. Earlydetection can result in significant benefits, eliminating fires,possible shorts, whether from receptacle to receptacle, or from seriesof receptacles, or receptacles interchangeable with inline powermonitoring unit, it is now possible because all receptacles are on samecircuit, they can communicate, e.g., unexpected power losses (wiresgetting frail or exposed), in GFI or AFI can be programmed that based ondeemed severity of fault various action can be taken, e.g. command tosend force trip to breaker, e.g. trip entire circuit. This can ensureintegrity of entire circuit is not compromised.

By having receptacles talking to each other, comparing voltage, currentwould have more control; e.g. circuit overload. Normally in theindustry, once there is too much current, the breaker trips. In thepresent case by receptacles talking to each other, when too much currentis found, no additional loads would be permitted and also cancommunicate what has happened. Breaker tripping would be limited to realfaults. Depending on sensitivity of units, the first receptacle oncircuit would trip downstream.

Example embodiments can deliver exact power required. For a 15 ampcircuit, an electrician will go up to 80% load design. The describedsystems in some example embodiments can go beyond 95% because downstreamcurrent is monitored, and as soon as load is added to the total,exceeding what would blow the fuse, the user is simply prevented fromadding further loads, since the relevant electrical receptacle or plugoutlet will not be activated. Multiple devices best to turn off furtherpower being used. The system can allow going to 14.5 A for examplewithout risk. Note that inrush can be passivated and can controloverages. The industry does not perform this kind of current monitoring(for whole dynamic measurement control purpose).

Breaker panel is center point of all feeding, breakers tripping. Mainbreaker or surge protector can trip based on events from outside.Stopping most electrical fires. Appliance based fires would not beconsidered “electrical fire”.

Currently manufacturers are adding $10-$15 of extra cost to reduce powerfactor and reduce power. The described electrical receptacles can removequiescent power drain. Can sense power washing cycle is complete and canshut down until user restarts cycle. Use less power, be safer.

The described devices can draw more than 15 A or 80% of 15 A as theelectrical receptacle can control the increase of amperage on a circuit.The system can with security exceed these as the device can prevent theaddition of local power if too close to max. If not safe, the devicedoes not turn power on for that particular unit; if still safe, then thedevice activates power. New level of safety where others may tripbreakers. The device can even measure temperature to stop power if in adangerous situation.

Optimizing wattage for appliances: the described devices have morecontrol; i.e. able to supply exact wattage needed to best use anappliance's engineering specs.

Other GFI devices simply look for a current mismatch between hot (black)and the neutral white. If there is a difference, the current must beflowing from the black through a person to Ground.

The circuit is measuring extremely accurately the difference between theBlack, White and can also differentiate between individual outlets andthe downstream.

The processing algorithm allows the system to extract with a higheraccuracy; however as higher accuracy also increases the possibility offalse triggering, there are secondary routines which look at the signalto determine if the signals are high enough to cause harm, and are theyin a consistent manner that they will cause harm. Apparent GFI faultsmight not be valid GFI faults. The intelligence determines whether ornot there is sufficient voltage difference occurring a sufficientfrequency to not be an aberration; rather a legitimate ground fault. Andcompare this against known profiles to establish legitimacy. Further, anexample embodiment includes having a self tester at programmed intervalsto test leakage and compare against known amount of leakage, and adjustaccordingly. The devices are calibrated at factory more than traditionalGFI's in order to maintain greater sensitivity and higher certainty ofcapturing a safety issue.

Similarly with Arc Faults, these have a leakage component like GFI, butat a higher level. It is recognized that this higher level of leakage isacceptable, unless it is detected certain other attributes which arethose of an arc fault. The system can recognize much more valid circuitsand remove false triggers which would otherwise occur (eg due to atoaster, drill, vacuum cleaner). The system can look for multipleoccurrences across different cycles rather than accepting that somethingoccurred only one time; i.e. has to occur with certain repetition todifferentiate that this is not a one time event that is characteristicof an acceptable “normal” arc-like signal. To prevent false triggering,the traditional GFCI's or AFCI's have “raised the floor” of what theylook for to trigger a trip. They do not look for the other attributes.In example embodiments, the device establishes whether a trippingtrigger would be false, or whether a tripping trigger should take place.

Speed & Calibration: The electromechanical nature of the industry'sAFCI's, GFI's limit the speed at which they respond and do not havedynamic calibration. Rather they are just simply testing that theircircuitry can trip the switch.

Self test: comparing the calibration reference to the measureddifferences. Currently in normal outlet they rely on the mechanical wingwhich generates connection between third prong and screw; howeverexample embodiments have a sensor that senses that one as well enablingchecking of the signal. For example, for bad wiring, there should be novoltage drop between black and white; any drop is relative to current.For good wiring, there is no current travelling on ground; if therewere, the system can detect it and report bad wiring.

An example embodiment can consider a ground fault that is not a GFIfault. Connections, wiring, plugs, not good zero ohm connection onground, suddenly starts rising. The device is comparing the ground andsafety ground. The processing enables the device to dynamically test allthe time the ground path. If the ground path rises and there's anycompromise the device can report it, e.g. within half a second, and/ordeactivate power, and/or open a breaker.

Another example embodiment is to manually short hot power line toground. Using the receptacle, one is manually triggering a short. Thiscan be done with a short to ground. A user can manually go to the plug,intentionally short to the Ground using a manual switch, and theelectrical receptacle and the system will smartly react.

In the disclosed system, an example embodiment is a manual button thatshorts hot to ground, that triggers a CPU. An example embodiment isintentionally creating ground fault to trigger an activity. A triggeredground fault can be a trigger of different activities including, in anexample embodiment, shutting down receptacle due to the CPU of thereceptacle detecting ground fault or GFI fault. Detection of arc faultor ground fault can be used to trigger additional security steps.Existing industry ground fault and arc fault shut themselves down only.The device can shut breakers down, different apparatus elsewhere. Forexample, if water damage to outlet, can preprogram that otheroutlets/inline devices should shut down too, or other action taken. Anexample embodiment includes communicating event happening on one circuitto devices on another circuit(s) (one or more), such as on a differenthot power line phase.

Reference to breakers, circuit breakers, and circuit breaker panels maybe interchangeable used or interchangeable as to their functionality asdescribed herein, as applicable. The disclosed concepts are applicableto power strips, power bars, extension cords, receptacle adaptors,circuit breakers, circuit breaker panels, in-line electricalreceptacles, and other devices that facilitate provision, safety, andcontrol of electrical power from power lines to downstream loads. Suchreceptacles may or may not include plug outlets for a matching plug, orother output connectors such as fixed electrical wiring, terminalscrews, sockets or pins. While a North American 110V 60 Hz receptacle isexemplified herein, the disclosed concepts are applicable to otherinternational receptacles or devices. Similarly, the disclosure is notlimited to plug blades as the mating means for the receptacle outlet,but is applicable interchangeably to other plug configurations such asfound in other international standards. Moreover, although the presentdisclosure has been exemplified in a single phase alternating currentcontext, the disclosure is operable in the contexts of direct currentand three-phase systems.

The following numbered clauses define further examples and/or exampleembodiments.

1. An electrical receptacle comprising:

a first plug outlet comprising first and second contacts configured forelectrical connection to a hot power line and a neutral power line,respectively;

a controlled state switch connected to the first plug outlet contact inseries relationship with the hot power line, the switch comprising acontrol terminal;

first and second sensors coupled respectively to the first and secondplug outlet contacts;

and a processor comprising an output coupled to the control terminal ofthe switch, the processor further comprising first and second inputsconnected respectively to the first and second sensors;

wherein the processor is configured to output an activation signal or adeactivation signal to the switch in response to sensor signals receivedat said first and second inputs, said sensor signals indicative ofconditions relative to the first and second contacts.

2. An electrical receptacle as recited in clause 1, further comprising:

a current sensor coupled to the hot power line, the current sensor havean output coupled to a third input of the processor;

wherein the processor is configured to output a deactivation signal tothe switch in response to receipt at said third input of a currentsensor output indicative of ground fault, arc fault or over-currentconditions.

3. An electrical receptacle as recited in clause 1, further comprising:

a second plug outlet comprising a pair of contacts;

a second controlled switch connected in series relationship between oneof the pair of second plug outlet contacts and the live power line, thesecond switch comprising a control terminal;

third and fourth sensors coupled respectively to the pair of second plugoutlet terminals;

and

the processor further comprises an output coupled to the controlterminal of the second switch, and a further pair of inputs connectedrespectively the third and fourth sensors;

wherein the processor is configured to output an activation signal or adeactivation signal to the second switch in response to sensor signalsreceived at said further pair of inputs, the received sensor signalsindicative of conditions relative to said pair of second plug outletcontacts.

4. An electrical receptacle as recited in clause 3, wherein each saidswitch comprises a TRIAC.

5. An electrical receptacle as recited in clause 3, wherein saidprocessor signals output to the switch of the first plug outlet areindependent of the processor signals output to the switch of the secondplug outlet.

6. An electrical receptacle as recited in clause 1, further comprising ametal oxide varistor (MOV) coupled across the hot line and the neutralline, thereby providing voltage protection against a voltage surge.

7. An electrical receptacle as recited in clause 1, wherein theprocessor is configured to output a deactivation signal to the switchprior to operation of mechanical breaker protection in the power lines.

8. An electrical receptacle comprising:

a first plug outlet comprising first and second contacts configured forelectrical connection to a hot power line and a neutral power line,respectively;

a controlled switch connected to the first plug outlet contact in seriesrelationship with the hot power line, the switch comprising a controlterminal; and

a circuit board mounted with integrated circuitry, the integratedcircuitry comprising:

a processor and an interrupt detection circuit, the interrupt detectioncircuit, the interrupt detection circuit having an input coupled to thefirst and second contacts of the first plug outlet and an output coupledto the processor;

wherein the processor comprises an output coupled to the controlterminal of the switch and is configured to output a deactivation signalto the switch in response to an input received from the interruptdetection circuit indicative of ground fault detection, arc faultdetection or over-current detection.

9. An electrical receptacle as recited in clause 8, wherein said switchcomprises a TRIAC.

10. An electrical receptacle as recited in clause 8, further comprising:

a second plug outlet comprising a pair of contacts;

a second controlled switch connected in series relationship between oneof the pair of second plug outlet contacts and the live power line, thesecond switch comprising a control terminal; and wherein:

the interrupt detection circuit comprises a further input coupled to thepair of contacts of the second plug outlet;

the processor further comprises an output coupled to the controlterminal of the second switch; and

wherein the processor is configured to output a deactivation signal tothe control terminal of the second switch in response to sensor signalsreceived from the interrupt detection circuit, the received sensorsignals indicative of conditions relative to said pair of second plugoutlet contacts.

11. An electrical receptacle as recited in clause 10, wherein saidprocessor signals output to the switch of the first plug outlet areindependent of the processor signals output to the switch of the secondplug outlet.

12. An electrical receptacle as recited in clause 10, further comprisinga metal oxide varistor (MOV) coupled across the hot line and the neutralline, thereby providing voltage protection against a voltage surge.

13. An electrical receptacle as recited in clause 10, wherein theprocessor is configured to output a deactivation signal to a respectiveone of said switches prior to operation of mechanical breaker protectionin the power lines.

14. An electrical receptacle as recited in clause 8, further comprisinga voltage protection circuit coupled across the hot line and neutralline.

15. The electrical receptacle as recited in clause 14, wherein thevoltage protection circuitry comprises a metal oxide varistor (MOV)across the hot line and the neutral line.

16. An in-wall electrical receptacle comprising:

at least one plug outlet, each said outlet comprising first and secondcontacts configured for electrical connection to a hot power line and aneutral power line, respectively;

at least one circuit board comprising a control circuit coupled to thefirst and second contacts of a respective said plug outlet forelectrical connection thereof to said power lines; and

a voltage surge protection circuit coupled to said circuit board andsaid power lines to protect the at least one circuit board againstupstream voltage surge from at least one of the power lines.

17. An in-wall electrical receptacle as recited in clause 16, whereinthe source voltage surge protection circuitry comprises a metal oxidevaristor (MOV), said varistor connected across the hot and neutral powerlines.

18. An in-wall electrical receptacle as recited in clause 16, whereinsaid control circuit comprises a processor having an input coupled tosaid power lines.

19. An in-wall electrical receptacle as recited in clause 18, whereinsaid processor is configured to record a number and intensity ofovervoltage occurrences of the electrical receptacle.

20. An in-wall electrical receptacle as recited in clause 19, whereinsaid processor is configured to output an end-of-life indication basedon a threshold of maximum number or intensity of the overvoltageoccurrences.

21. An in-wall electrical receptacle as recited in clause 16, furthercomprising a downstream series electrical connection to a secondelectrical receptacle, and wherein said second electrical receptaclecomprises a second voltage surge protection circuit, thereby providing atighter voltage capping tolerance.

22. An in-wall electrical receptacle as recited in clause 16, furthercomprising a controlled switch connected to the first plug outletcontact in series relationship with the hot power line, the switchcomprising a control terminal.

23. An in-wall electrical receptacle as recited in clause 22, whereinthe processor comprises an output coupled to the switch control terminalfor activating electrical connection of the plug outlet contacts to thepower lines.

24. An electrical receptacle comprising:

at least one plug outlet, each said outlet comprising a pair of contactsconfigured for electrical connection to a hot and neutral power linerespectively;

a controlled switch connected to a contact of each respective said plugoutlet in series relationship with the hot power line, each saidcontrolled switch comprising a control terminal; and

a processor coupled to the power lines, the processor comprising:

output terminals coupled respectively to the control terminals of eachsaid controlled switch; and

means for determining from sampled signals of the power lines that a sumof current of all hot lines is not within a set threshold, to apply adeactivation signal to an associated switch control terminal.

25. An electrical receptacle as recited in clause 24, wherein each saidswitch comprises a TRIAC.

26. An electrical receptacle comprising:

at least one plug outlet, each said outlet comprising a pair of contactsconfigured for electrical connection to a hot and neutral power linerespectively;

a switch connected to a contact of each respective plug outlet in seriesrelationship with the hot power line, each said switch comprising acontrol terminal; and

a processor coupled to the power lines, the processor comprising outputterminals coupled respectively to the control terminal of said switch ofeach said plug outlet;

wherein the processor is configured to output a deactivation signal tothe control terminal of each switch in response to sampled signals ofthe power lines indicative of a current fault.

27. An electrical receptacle as recited in clause 26, wherein theprocessor comprises a dynamic memory in which the sampled signals aredynamically stored.

28. An electrical receptacle as recited in clause 27, wherein theprocessor is configured to reconstruct waveforms of the sampled signalsfrom the sampled signals stored in the dynamic memory.

29. An electrical receptacle as recited in clause 28, further comprisinga memory for storing criteria for temporal signal imbalance, waveformcriteria, minimum values, maximum values, table lookup values, referencedatasets and/or Fourier analysis criteria, with which the sampledsignals are compared.

30. An electrical receptacle as recited in clause 26, wherein theprocessor is configured to store a minimum monitoring time period of thesampled signals sufficient to detect a possible fault.

31. An electrical receptacle as recited in clause 26, wherein theprocessor comprises a reference lookup table comprising criteriarelating to a temporal signal imbalance occurrence of the sampledsignals.

32. An electrical receptacle as recited in clause 31, wherein theprocessor is configured to determine temporal imbalance from sampledcurrent of the hot line.

33. An electrical receptacle as recited in clause 31, wherein theprocessor is configured to determine temporal imbalance from sampledvoltage of the hot line.

34. An electrical receptacle as recited in clause 26, wherein each saidswitch comprises a TRIAC.

35. An electrical receptacle comprising:

at least one plug outlet, each said outlet comprising:

a pair of contacts configured for electrical connection to a hot andneutral power line respectively;

a socket configured to receive a plug prong having one of a plurality ofprong orientations;

a controlled switch connected to a first of said pair of contacts inseries relationship with the hot power line, the switch comprising acontrol terminal;

a processor coupled to the plug outlet contacts, the processorcomprising:

output terminals coupled respectively to the control terminal of saidswitch of each said plug outlet;

a memory for storing threshold current values correlated with respectivesaid prong orientations;

wherein the processor is configured to determine prong orientation of areceived plug and output a deactivation signal to the switch controlterminal in response to sampled signals of the power lines indicative ofa current fault for the determined plug orientation.

36. An electrical receptacle as recited in clause 35, further comprisinga plug orientation sensor coupled to the plug contacts and theprocessor.

37. An electrical receptacle as recited in clause 35, wherein thethreshold current value is 20 Amperes for one of said prong orientationsand 15 Amperes for another said prong orientation.

38. An electrical receptacle as recited in clause 35, wherein theelectrical receptacle is connected to a second electrical receptaclethat is unaffected by said deactivation signal.

39. An electrical receptacle as recited in clause 35, further comprisinga second plug outlet, wherein said deactivation signal does not affectsaid second plug outlet.

40. An electrical receptacle as recited in clause 35, wherein eachswitch comprises a TRIAC.

41. An electrical receptacle comprising:

a plurality of plug outlets, each said outlet comprising a pair ofcontacts configured for electrical connection to a hot and neutral powerline respectively;

a plurality of controlled switches, each said switch connected to acontact of a respective one of said plurality of plug outlets in seriesrelationship with the hot power line, each said switch comprising acontrol terminal; and

a processor coupled to the plug outlets, the processor comprising aplurality of output terminals coupled respectively to the controlterminals of said switches;

wherein the processor is configured to sample signals at each plugoutlet and, in response to the sampled signals at one individual plugoutlet satisfying criteria, outputting a deactivation control signal therespective switch of said one individual plug outlet independent ofrespective electrical connections of other said plug outlets.

42. An electrical receptacle as recited in clause 41, wherein theelectrical receptacle is connected across the hot and neutral powerlines and to a second electrical receptacle that is unaffected by saiddeactivation signal.

43. An electrical receptacle as recited in clause 42, wherein the secondelectrical receptacle comprises a controlled switch connected to the hotpower line, and a control electrode of the electrical switch of thesecond electrical receptacle is coupled to the processor;

wherein deactivation of each of the electrical receptacles is controlledindependently of each other.

44. An electrical receptacle as recited in clause 41, the processor isconfigured to output a deactivation signal to the switch prior tooperation of mechanical breaker protection in the power lines.

45. An electrical receptacle as recited in clause 44, wherein theprocessor is configured to communicate a fault signal to the breakerupon outputting the deactivation signal.

46. An electrical receptacle as recited in clause 41, wherein thecriteria comprises ground fault detection, arc fault detection orover-current detection.

47. An electrical receptacle as recited in clause 41, wherein eachswitch comprises a TRIAC.

48. A system comprising:

a plurality of electrical receptacles coupled to hot and neutral powerlines;

a first said electrical receptacle comprising:

a plug outlet comprising a contact configured for electrical connectionto the hot power line;

a communication subsystem configured to communicate with a downstreamload and/or a second said electrical receptacle which is downstream tosaid first said electrical receptacle;

a processor configured to sample signals at said plug outlet and samplesignals downstream of the first electrical receptacle and, in responseto the sampled signals satisfying criteria, outputting a deactivationsignal to the communication subsystem for deactivation of said secondreceptacle from the hot line.

49. A system as recited in clause 48, wherein the criteria includes athreshold for the sum of current of the plug outlet and currentdownstream to the electrical receptacle.

50. A system as recited in clause 48, wherein the criteria includes athreshold for current downstream of the electrical receptacle.

51. A system as recited in clause 48, wherein the output deactivationsignal is not applied to control of said plug outlet.

52. A system as recited in clause 48, wherein said second receptaclecomprises a second plug outlet, said first and second plug outletscomprise, respectively, a controlled switch for serial connection to thehot line, and said processor is configured to wait a specified delayprior to outputting said deactivation signal.

53. A system as recited in clause 52, wherein said processor isconfigured to, after the specified delay and after determining that thedeactivating was not performed by the downstream load and/or the secondreceptacle, deactivate at least one of the respective switches.

54. A system as recited in clause 48, wherein the downstream electricalconnection is wired in parallel from the plurality of power lines withrespect to said plug outlet.

55. An electrical receptacle comprising:

a plug outlet comprising first and second prong socket contactsconfigured for electrical connection to a hot power line and a neutralpower line, respectively;

a power source;

a mechanical switch mechanism electrically connected to the power sourcein an on state;

a plurality of detectors corresponding respectively to the first andsecond prong socket contacts, said detectors connected to the switchmechanism and the power source during the on state of the switchmechanism;

wherein the mechanical switch mechanism is activated to said on state byinsertion of one or more objects in the plug outlets;

and the electrical receptacle further comprises a processor configuredto activate electrical connection from the hot line to the first prongsocket in response to two or more objects being detected by theplurality of detectors within a specified time.

56. An electrical receptacle as recited in clause 55, further comprisinga controlled switch connected between the first prong socket contact andthe hot line, a control terminal of the switch coupled to the processor.

57. An electrical receptacle as recited in clause 55, further comprisingan indicator coupled to the processor;

wherein outputs of the detectors are coupled to the processor; and

the processor is further configured to produce an output to theindicator in response to outputs received from the detectors indicativethat objects have not been inserted in the plug sockets within saidspecified time.

58. An electrical receptacle as recited in clause 55, wherein theplurality of detectors comprise optical switches.

59. An electrical receptacle comprising:

at least one plug outlet comprising prong socket contacts configured forelectrical connection to a hot power line and a neutral power line,respectively;

a first circuit board including a hot line prong socket for each saidplug outlet, said circuit board comprising first circuitry forelectrical connection from the hot line to each hot line prong socket;and

a second circuit board spatially separated from the first circuit board,said second circuit board comprising a neutral line prong socket foreach said plug outlet and second circuitry for electrical connectionfrom a neutral line to each neutral line prong socket.

60. An electrical receptacle as recited in clause 59, wherein the firstcircuit board is configured generally parallel to the second circuitboard.

61. An electrical receptacle as recited in clause 59, wherein the firstcircuit board and the second circuit board are generally planar andconfigured in parallel relationship to an insertion direction of the atleast one plug outlet.

62. An electrical receptacle as recited in clause 59, further comprisingat least one processor configured to output a control signal to activateelectrical connection from the hot line to a corresponding said prongsocket.

63. An electrical receptacle as recited in clause 62, further comprisinga controlled switch controlled connected between a respective hot lineprong socket and the hot line, a control electrode of said switchcoupled to the output of the processor for hot line electricalconnection activation.

64. An electrical receptacle as recited in clause 59, wherein the firstcircuitry comprises high power control circuitry and the secondcircuitry comprises low power logic control circuitry.

65. An electrical receptacle as recited in clause 59, wherein the firstcircuitry comprises high power control circuitry and the secondcircuitry comprises communication function circuitry.

66. An electrical receptacle for connection to a plurality of powerlines protected by a mechanical breaker, the electrical receptaclecomprising:

at least one plug outlet, each said plug outlet comprising a pair ofcontacts configured for electrical connection to a hot and neutral powerline of said plurality of power lines, respectively;

a controlled switch connected to a contact of each said plug outlet inseries relationship with the hot power line, each said controlled switchcomprising a control terminal for controlling electrical connection anddisconnection between the respective plug outlet contact and the hotline; and

wherein deactivation of each said switch precedes operation of themechanical breaker.

67. An electrical receptacle as recited in clause 66, further comprisinga processor coupled to each switch control terminal, the processorconfigured to monitor outlet current for outputting a deactivationsignal to said each switch control to deactivate said switch and effectsaid disconnection.

68. An electrical receptacle as recited in clause 66, further comprisinga processor coupled to each switch control terminal, the processorconfigured to output a deactivation signal to said each switch controlterminal to deactivate said switch and effect said disconnection inresponse to a maximum supplied current to said plug outlet in order toprecede or avoid tripping of the mechanical breaker.

69. An electrical receptacle as recited in clause 66, wherein eachswitch comprises a TRIAC.

70. A system comprising:

a plurality of electrical receptacles coupled to hot and neutral powerlines;

each of said plurality of electrical receptacles comprising:

at least one plug outlet comprising a contact configured for electricalconnection to the hot power line and the neutral power line;

a controlled switch connected to a contact of each said plug outlet inseries relationship with the hot power line for controlling connectionfrom the hot line;

a communication subsystem configured to communicate between a first saidreceptacle and a second said electrical receptacle downstream to saidfirst electrical receptacle; and

a processor configured to sample signals at the plug outlet of the firstreceptacle and determine that a fault occurred at said second electricalreceptacle and, in response to said determination, to wait for aspecified delay period prior to outputting a deactivation signal to anyof the respective switches.

71. A system as recited in clause 70, wherein the processor isconfigured to determine that deactivation was not performed by thesecond receptacle during said delay period prior to outputting thedeactivation signal.

72. A system as recited in clause 70, wherein the processor is furtherconfigured to determine that occurrence of a fault at an input of saidfirst receptacle and, in response thereto, to wait a second specifieddelay of a period shorter than said specified delay, to output adeactivation signal.

73. A system as recited in clause 70, wherein the fault comprises aground fault.

74. A system as recited in clause 70, further comprising a dip switch orprogrammable serial command configured to perform the specified delay.

75. A system as recited in clause 70, wherein each switch comprises aTRIAC.

76. An electrical receptacle comprising:

at least one plug outlet comprising prong socket contacts configured forelectrical connection to a hot power line and a neutral power line,respectively;

a controlled switch connected to a contact of each said plug outlet inseries relationship with the hot power line for controlling connectionfrom the hot line;

a processor comprising at least one input coupled to said plug outletand an output coupled to a control terminal of said switch;

wherein the processor is configured to determine that a plug is insertedinto said plug outlet and, in response to an approximate zero volt levelof the alternating current waveform, output an activation signal to acontrol terminal of said switch for electrical connection of the plugoutlet to the hot line when the alternating current waveform is at orabout zero volts.

77. An electrical receptacle comprising:

at least one plug outlet configured for electrical connection to hot andneutral power lines;

a processor coupled to said plug outlet;

wherein the processor is configured to determine that the electricalreceptacle is incorrectly wired, and in response to said determination,outputting a control signal to the plug outlet to preclude electricalconnection of the plug outlet to the power lines.

78. An electrical receptacle as recited in clause 77, further comprisinga controlled switch connected to the plug outlet;

wherein control signal is applied to a control terminal of said switch.

79. An electrical receptacle as recited in clause 77, wherein theprocessor is configured to control a maximum supplied current to theincorrectly wired plug outlet.

80. An electrical receptacle comprising:

at least one plug outlet, each plug outlet configured for electricalconnection to hot and neutral power lines; and

a processor coupled to said plug outlet, the processor configured todetermine that the plug outlet has received a plug without a groundprong.

81. An electrical receptacle as recited in clause 80, wherein theprocessor is further configured to determine whether or not a groundprong is appropriate for the received plug and, in response todetermination that a ground prong is appropriate, output a controlsignal to the plug outlet for controlling a maximum supplied current tothe plug outlet.

82. The electrical receptacle as recited in clause 81, wherein theprocessor, in response to determination that a ground prong isunnecessary for the received plug, does not output said control signal.

83. An electrical receptacle comprising:

at least one plug outlet, each plug outlet configured for electricalconnection to hot and neutral the power lines; and

a processor configured to determine an internal component failure of theelectrical receptacle.

84. An electrical receptacle as recited in clause 83, wherein theprocessor is configured to generate a fault output in response to saidinternal component failure determination.

85. An electrical receptacle as recited in clause 84, wherein theelectrical receptacle is connected to a downstream electricalreceptacle; and

wherein the generated fault output generated is in response to detectionto component failure at the second electrical receptacle.

86. An electrical receptacle as recited in clause 85, wherein thegenerated fault is in response to a ground fault.

87. An electrical receptacle as recited in clause 83, wherein theprocessor is configured to perform self-testing of the electricalreceptacle for said determining the internal component failure.

88. The electrical receptacle as recited in clause 87, wherein theprocessor is configured to perform self-testing in an ongoing orperiodic routine.

89. An electrical receptacle comprising:

at least one plug outlet, each plug outlet configured for electricalconnection to hot and neutral the power lines; and

at least one sensor for detecting electrical signal values related tothe plug outlet; and

a processor configured to self-calibrate the at least one sensor.

90. An electrical receptacle as recited in clause 89, wherein the atleast one sensor comprises a current sensor.

91. An electrical receptacle as recited in clause 89, wherein the atleast one sensor comprises a voltage sensor.

92. An electrical receptacle as recited in clause 89, further comprisinga constant current source coupled to the processor, wherein saidself-calibration is performed by referring to the constant currentsource.

93. An electrical receptacle comprising:

at least one plug outlet, each plug outlet configured for electricalconnection to hot and neutral the power lines; and

a controlled switch connected to a contact of said plug outlet in seriesrelationship with the hot power line for controlling connection from thehot line;

a processor electrically coupled to the receptacle, the processorconfigured to perform ongoing or periodic self-testing of the electricalreceptacle to determine a fault and, in response a fault determination,generate a control output to a control terminal of the switch todeactivate electrical connection of the plug outlet from the hot line.

94. An electrical receptacle comprising:

at least one plug outlet, each plug outlet configured for electricalconnection to hot and neutral the power lines; and

a processor electrically coupled to the receptacle, the processorconfigured to sample signals at the neutral line, and in response to thesample signals, determine whether the sample signals satisfy specificcriteria.

95. An electrical receptacle for connecting to a plurality of powerlines including a hot line and a neutral line, the electrical receptaclecomprising:

at least one plug outlet;

a plurality of prong sockets for each plug outlet, each prong socketcorresponding to a respective one of the power lines;

a power source;

a plurality of switches coupled to a power source, the plurality ofswitches corresponding to respective ones of said prong sockets wherein:

the switches are positioned to detect a presence of an object at thecorresponding prong socket;

each switch comprises a switch plunger depressed by deflection of aspring contact due to insertion of the one or more objects; and furthercomprising:

a processor configured to activate electrical connection from the hotline to the corresponding prong socket in response to a plurality ofobjects being detected by the switches substantially within a specifiedtime.

96. The electrical receptacle as recited in clause 1, wherein theelectrical receptacle comprises an in-wall receptacle, a multiple-outletpower adapter, a power strip, or an extension cord.

The following numbered clauses define further examples and/or exampleembodiments.

1. An electrical receptacle comprising:

a first contact and a second contact configured for electricalconnection to a hot power line and a neutral power line, respectively,and each configured for downstream electrical connection to a respectivedownstream power line;

a controlled state switch connected in series relationship to the hotpower line;

at least one sensor to detect signals indicative of the hot power line;

at least one sensor to detect signals indicative of the neutral powerline; and

a processor configured to control an activation or a deactivation of thecontrolled state switch in response to the signals detected by at leastone of the sensors or in response to receiving a communication.

2. An electrical receptacle as recited in clause 1:

wherein the at least one sensor to detect signals indicative of the hotpower line comprises a current sensor to detect current of the hot powerline;

wherein the processor is configured to control deactivation of theswitch in response to the detected current of the current sensor outputindicative of ground fault, arc fault or over-current conditions.

3. An electrical receptacle as recited in clause 1, further comprising:

a second pair of contacts in parallel to the first and second contacts,configured for electrical connection to the hot power line and theneutral power line, respectively, and configured for associateddownstream electrical connection;

a second controlled state switch connected in series relationshipbetween one contact of the second pair of contacts and the hot powerline.

4. An electrical receptacle as recited in clause 1, wherein saidcontrolled state switch comprises a TRIAC.

5. An electrical receptacle as recited in clause 1, further comprising ametal oxide varistor (MOV) coupled across the hot line and the neutralline, thereby providing voltage protection against a voltage surge.

6. An electrical receptacle as recited in clause 1, wherein saiddownstream electrical connection is to a plug outlet of the electricalreceptacle.

7. An electrical receptacle as recited in clause 1, wherein saiddownstream electrical connection is to a second electrical receptacle.

8. An electrical receptacle as recited in clause 7, wherein said secondelectrical receptacle comprises further protection against voltagesurge, ground fault, arc fault or over-current conditions.

9. An electrical receptacle as recited in clause 7, wherein said secondelectrical receptacle does not provide protection against voltage surge,ground fault, arc fault or over-current conditions.

10. An electrical receptacle as recited in clause 1, wherein saiddownstream electrical connection is to a load.

11. An electrical receptacle as recited in clause 10, wherein thecontrolled state switch is a sole local switch power to turn the load onand off.

12. An electrical receptacle as recited in clause 10, wherein thecontrolled state switch is controlled to provide a partial power outputto the load.

13. An electrical receptacle as recited in clause 12, wherein thepartial power output to the load is for dimming of the load.

14. A system comprising:

an electrical receptacle as recited in clause 1;

a circuit board with integrated circuitry and comprising the processor;and

at least one further circuit board each comprising a respectiveprocessor, the respective processor configured for communication withsaid processor, for at least said activation or said deactivation, inresponse to inputs received from sources external to the electricalreceptacle.

15. A system as recited in clause 14, wherein said communication isperformed using wireless communication and/or wired communication.

16. A system as recited in clause 14, wherein the at least one furthercircuit board comprises only low power logic control circuitry.

17. A system as recited in clause 14, further comprising a casing,wherein the circuit board and the at least one further circuit boardreside within the casing.

18. A system as recited in clause 14, further comprising a casing,wherein the circuit board resides within the casing and the at least onefurther circuit board is external to the casing.

19. A system as recited in clause 18, wherein at least one of thefurther circuit boards is part of a wireless portable communicationdevice, a mobile phone, a computer tablet, or an original equipmentmanufacturer (OEM) computer device.

20. A system as recited in clause 14, wherein the inputs to the at leastone further circuit board comprise low voltage inputs which comprisesensor inputs or manual control inputs.

21. A system as recited in clause 20, wherein the processor isconfigured to receive at least one of the same inputs as said inputs ofthe at least one further circuit board.

22. A system as recited in clause 20, wherein said downstream electricalconnection is to a load, further comprising a user interface device forentering the manual control inputs to be processed by the respectiveprocessor of at least one of the further circuit boards, to turn theload on and off.

23. A system as recited in clause 14, further comprising a dry contactswitch which is configured to, without a voltage reference source, shorttwo pins of a packaging of the processor or one of the respectiveprocessors, the processor or one of the respective processors beingresponsive to the short to effect deactivation of the controlled stateswitch, another electrical receptacle, and/or a load.

24. An electrical receptacle as recited in clause 1, wherein theelectrical receptacle is an in-wall electrical receptacle.

25. An electrical receptacle as recited in clause 1, further comprisinga second controlled state switch connected in series relationship to theneutral power line.

26. An electrical receptacle as recited in clause 1, wherein theprocessor is further configured to sample signals of the respectivepower lines.

27. An electrical receptacle as recited in clause 26, wherein theprocessor is further configured to determine from the sample signalsthat a sum of current of all hot power lines is not within a setthreshold, to control deactivation of the controlled state switch.

28. An electrical receptacle as recited in clause 26, wherein theprocessor is further configured to control deactivation of thecontrolled state switch in response to sampled signals of the powerlines indicative of a current fault.

29. An electrical receptacle as recited in clause 26, wherein theprocessor comprises a dynamic memory in which the sampled signals aredynamically stored.

30. An electrical receptacle as recited in clause 29, wherein theprocessor is configured to reconstruct waveforms of the sampled signalsfrom the sampled signals stored in the dynamic memory.

31. An electrical receptacle as recited in clause 30, further comprisinga memory for storing criteria for temporal signal imbalance, waveformcriteria, minimum values, maximum values, table lookup values, referencedatasets and/or Fourier analysis criteria, with which the sampledsignals are compared.

32. An electrical receptacle as recited in clause 26, wherein theprocessor is configured to store a minimum monitoring time period of thesampled signals sufficient to detect a possible fault.

33. An electrical receptacle as recited in clause 26, wherein theprocessor comprises a reference lookup table comprising criteriarelating to a temporal signal imbalance occurrence of the sampledsignals.

34. An electrical receptacle as recited in clause 26, wherein theprocessor is configured to determine temporal imbalance from sampledcurrent of the hot power line.

35. An electrical receptacle as recited in clause 26, wherein theprocessor is configured to determine temporal imbalance from sampledvoltage of the hot power line.

36. An electrical receptacle as recited in clause 26, wherein theprocessor is configured to, in response to determining criteria from thesampled signal, output a deactivation signal to a communicationsubsystem for deactivation of a device at the downstream electricalconnection.

37. An electrical receptacle as recited in clause 36, wherein thecriteria includes a threshold for the sum of all downstream currents tothe electrical receptacle.

38. An electrical receptacle as recited in clause 26, wherein theprocessor is configured to determine that the controlled state switch isto be activated, and configured to only activate the controlled stateswitch at an approximate zero volt level of an alternating currentwaveform.

39. An electrical receptacle as recited in clause 1, further comprising:

at least one further processor configured for communication with saidprocessor, configured to be responsive to the signals detected by atleast one of the sensors, to provide redundancy of said control of theactivation or the deactivation of the controlled state switch.

40. An electrical receptacle as recited in clause 39, wherein theprocessor and the at least one further processor are on a same circuitboard.

41. An electrical receptacle as recited in any one of clauses 1 to 40,wherein the electrical receptacle comprises an in-wall receptacle, amultiple-outlet power adapter, a power strip, an in-line powerreceptacle, an extension cord, a circuit breaker, or a circuit breakerpanel.

42. An electrical receptacle as recited in clause 1, further comprisinga dry contact switch which is configured to, without a voltage referencesource, short two pins of a packaging of the processor, the processorresponsive to the short to effect deactivation of the controlled stateswitch, another electrical receptacle, and/or a load.

43. An electrical receptacle as recited in clause 42, wherein theanother electrical receptacle and/or the load are connected to adifferent hot power line phase than the electrical receptacle.

44. An electrical receptacle as recited in clause 42, wherein theanother electrical receptacle and/or the load are connected to a samehot power line phase as the electrical receptacle.

45. A communication system, comprising:

a wired network;

an electrical receptacle configured for electrical connection to atleast one power line, the electrical receptacle comprising acommunication subsystem configured for wired communications over thewired network to communicate with one or more further electricalreceptacles; and

a gateway for controlling access and/or authentication to the wiredcommunications over the wired network.

46. A communication system as recited in clause 45, wherein theelectrical receptacle comprises a wireless communication module.

47. A communication system as recited in clause 46, wherein electricalreceptacle comprises the gateway.

48. A communication system as recited in clause 46, wherein electricalreceptacle comprises an access point, a network extender, and/or a meshnetwork node.

49. A communication system as recited in clause 45, wherein the gatewaycomprises a wireless communication module.

50. A communication system as recited in clause 49, wherein the gatewayis configured as an access point to the wired communications.

51. A communication system as recited in clause 45, wherein theelectrical receptacle is configured for further electrical connection ofthe at least one power line to a downstream electrical receptacle.

52. A communication system as recited in clause 45, wherein theelectrical receptacle is configured for further electrical connection toat least one plug outlet.

53. A communication system as recited in clause 52, wherein access tothe wired communications over the at least one power line is availablethrough the at least one plug outlet.

54. A communication system as recited in clause 49, wherein permissionfrom the gateway is required to access the wired communications.

55. A communication system as recited in clause 45, wherein the wiredcommunications are performed over at least one of the power lines.

56. A communication system as recited in clause 55, wherein the wiredcommunications over the power lines are used for bothreceptacle-to-receptacle communication and Internet communication.

57. A communication system as recited in clause 55, wherein the wiredcommunications continue when a circuit breaker of a circuit breakerpanel opens one of the power lines.

58. A communication system as recited in clause 55, wherein the wiredcommunications bypass a circuit breaker panel of the power lines.

59. A communication system as recited in clause 45, wherein the wiredcommunications are performed over a low voltage line.

60. A communication system as recited in clause 45, wherein the wiredcommunications are performed over a neutral power line to ground.

61. A communication system as recited in clause 60, wherein the wiredcommunications comprise injecting a DC signal over the neutral line andmodulating the DC signal.

62. A communication system as recited in clause 60, wherein the wiredcommunications comprise sending a RF signal over the neutral line.

63. A communication device, comprising:

a first contact configured for electrical connection to a neutral powerline, and a second contact configured for electrical connection toground;

a processor; and

a communication subsystem configured for wired communications over theneutral power line to the ground.

64. A communication device as recited in clause 63, wherein the wiredcommunications comprise inserting a DC signal over the neutral line andmodulating the DC signal.

65. A communication device as recited in clause 63, wherein the wiredcommunications comprise sending a RF signal over the neutral line.

66. A communication device as recited in clause 63, wherein the wiredcommunications continue when a circuit breaker of a breaker panel opensa hot power line.

67. A communication device as recited in clause 63, wherein the wiredcommunications bypass a circuit breaker panel.

68. A communication device as recited in clause 63, wherein thecommunication device is a device comprising a plug for plugging into aplug outlet.

69. A communication device as recited in clause 63, wherein thecommunication device is an electrical receptacle having a plug outlet.

70. A communication device as recited in clause 63, wherein thecommunication device is a circuit breaker panel.

71. A communication device, comprising:

a first contact configured for electrical connection to a first hotpower line having a first power line phase, and a second contactconfigured for electrical connection to a second hot power line having asecond power line phase different from the first power line phase; and

a processor configured to bridge wired communications between the firstpower line phase and the second power line phase.

72. A communication device as recited in clause 71, wherein thecommunications of the first power line phase are between the first powerline phase to a neutral phasea and the communications of the secondpower line phase are between the second power line phase to the neutralphase.

73. A communication device as recited in clause 71, further comprising aseparate power supply from the power lines, wherein the processor isconfigured to continue the wired communications using the separate powersupply when a circuit breaker of a circuit breaker panel opens one ormore of the hot power lines.

74. A communication device as recited in clause 71, wherein thecommunication device is a circuit breaker panel.

75. A communication device as recited in clause 71, further comprising afirst communication subsystem configured for wired communications overthe first hot power line; and a second communication subsystemconfigured for wired communications over the second hot power line.

76. An electrical receptacle for connection to power lines, comprising:

a first contact and a second contact configured for electricalconnection to a hot power line and a neutral power line, respectively;

a communication subsystem configured for wired communications with oneor more further electrical receptacles;

a processor having a packaging with pins, and configured to communicatevia the wired communications;

a dry contact switch which is configured to, without a voltage referencesource, short two pins of the packaging of the processor, the processorresponsive to the short to effect, directly by the processor orindirectly via at least one further processor, deactivation of one ormore of the further electrical receptacles, by communication over thewired communications.

77. An electrical receptacle device as recited in clause 76, furthercomprising a controlled state switch connected in series relationship tothe hot power line, wherein the processor is further configured todeactivate the controlled state switch in response to the short.

78. A manual power override system, comprising:

a plurality of devices each configured for wired communications and eachhaving a controlled state switch to control hot line power to thatindividual device, the plurality of devices comprising at least one ofor all of:

an electrical receptacle having a plug outlet,

an in-line electrical receptacle,

a load, and/or

a circuit breaker panel;

a processor having a packaging with pins;

a communication subsystem operable by the processor for the wiredcommunications;

a dry contact switch which is configured to, without a voltage referencesource, short two pins of the packaging of the processor, the processorresponsive to the short to effect, directly by the processor orindirectly via at least one further processor, deactivation of thecontrolled state switch of each of the plurality of devices, bycommunication over the wired communications.

79. A manual power override system as recited in clause 78, wherein theprocessor is further responsive to the short to effect, directly orindirectly, a sequential order of the deactivation of the plurality ofdevices.

80. A manual power override system as recited in clause 79, furthercomprising a memory accessible by the processor or by the at least onefurther processor, that stores the sequential order of the deactivationof the plurality of devices.

81. An electrical safety system, comprising:

an electrical receptacle, comprising:

a plug outlet comprising first and second contacts configured forelectrical connection to a hot power line and a neutral power line,respectively,

a controlled state switch connected to the first contact in seriesrelationship with the hot power line,

a processor configured to control an activation or a deactivation of thecontrolled state switch, the controlled state switch being in adeactivation state as a default when there is a plug in the plug outlet.

82. An electrical safety system as recited in clause 81, wherein theelectrical receptacle further includes a communication subsystem for theelectrical receptacle in operable communication with the processor; andfurther comprising:

a load, comprising:

the plug, and

a communication subsystem for the load configured to communicate to thecommunication subsystem for the electrical receptacle that the load isto be powered on.

83. An electrical safety system as recited in clause 82, wherein theload further includes a user input device configured to be activated inorder to turn on the load, wherein the communication from thecommunication subsystem for the load to the communication subsystem forthe electrical receptacle is sent in response to activation of the userinput device.

84. An electrical safety system as recited in clause 82, wherein thecommunication between the communication subsystem for the load and thecommunication subsystem for the electrical receptacle is performed overone of the power lines.

85. An electrical safety system as recited in clause 82, wherein thecommunication between the communication subsystem for the load and thecommunication subsystem for the electrical receptacle is a wirelesscommunication.

86. An electrical safety system as recited in clause 81, furthercomprising a voltage sensor to detect voltage of the hot power line,wherein when the plug is inserted the processor is further configured todetermine that the voltage is at a specified voltage or within athreshold thereof, and upon said determining activating the controlledstate switch.

87. An electrical safety system as recited in clause 81, furthercomprising a sensor to detect a signal of the hot power line, whereinwhen the plug is inserted the processor is further configured todetermine that the signal is not at a specified signal value or within athreshold thereof, and upon said determining outputting that a circuitbreaker has tripped.

88. An electrical safety system as recited in clause 87, wherein saidoutputting includes identifying which particular circuit breaker hastripped.

89. An electrical safety system as recited in clause 87, wherein saidoutputting includes outputting to a display screen or sending a messageto another device.

90. An electrical safety system as recited in clause 81, wherein theprocessor is configured to receive a message that a circuit breakerpanel has tripped, and wherein when the plug is inserted and thecommunication from the load indicates that the load is to be powered on,the processor does not activate the controlled state switch.

91. An electrical safety system as recited in clause 90, wherein themessage is received from the circuit breaker panel.

92. A circuit breaker panel comprising:

at least one circuit breaker for connection to at least one hot powerline, and each circuit breaker configured for downstream electricalconnection to a respective downstream power line;

a processor for controlling the at least one circuit breaker;

at least one sensor to detect signals indicative of the at least one hotpower line; and

a communication subsystem for wired communication with devices that aredownstream to the at least one circuit breaker;

wherein the processor is configured to, when one of the circuit breakersopens, output information relating to the signals from the at least onesensor.

93. A circuit breaker panel as recited in clause 92, wherein saidoutputting includes identifying which particular circuit breaker hastripped.

94. A circuit breaker panel as recited in clause 92, wherein saidoutputting includes outputting to a display screen or sending a messageto another device.

95. A circuit breaker panel as recited in clause 92, wherein theprocessor is further configured to receive a message from one of thedevices to a specified circuit breaker, and in response effect openingof the specified circuit breaker.

96. A circuit breaker panel as recited in clause 92, further comprisinga memory for storing information relating to the signals from the atleast one sensor.

97. A circuit breaker panel as recited in clause 92, wherein thecommunication subsystem is for electrical connection to a first hotpower line having a first power line phase, and for electricalconnection to a second hot power line having a second power line phasedifferent from the first power line phase; and wherein the processor isfurther configured to bridge wired communications between the firstpower line phase and the second power line phase.

98. A circuit breaker panel as recited in clause 92, wherein the wiredcommunications are performed over at least one of the power lines.

99. A circuit breaker panel as recited in clause 92, wherein the wiredcommunications over the power lines are used for bothreceptacle-to-receptacle communication and Internet communication.

100. A circuit breaker panel as recited in clause 92, wherein the wiredcommunications continue when the one circuit breaker opens one of thepower lines.

101. A circuit breaker panel as recited in clause 92, wherein the wiredcommunications are performed over a low voltage line.

102. A circuit breaker panel as recited in clause 92, wherein thecommunication subsystem is operably coupled to a neutral power line,wherein the wired communications are performed over the neutral powerline to ground.

103. A circuit breaker panel as recited in clause 102, wherein the wiredcommunications comprise injecting a DC signal over the neutral line andmodulating the DC signal.

104. A circuit breaker panel as recited in clause 102, wherein theprocessor is further configured to send a communication in response todetermining that no power is detected.

105. An appliance or load comprising:

a circuit board including a processor configured for power control ofthe appliance or load, and

the processor further configured for power safety of the appliance orload and/or communication with an electrical receptacle.

106. An appliance or load as recited in clause 105 wherein thecommunication is integrated to the communication system as recited inclause 45, bringing network security, the power safety and the powercontrol one step up within the completed electrical circuit.

107. An appliance or load as recited in clause 105 wherein the circuitboard is configured for power safety without communication and as a selfcontained unit.

108. An appliance or load as recited in clause 105 using any power linecommunication.

109. A device, comprising:

a neutral contact for connection to a neutral power line and a groundcontact; and

a communication subsystem for communicating over the neutral power lineto the ground.

110. A circuit breaker for connection at least one power line,comprising:

a breaker for connection to a hot power line of the at least on powerline;

a processor for controlling the breaker; and

a communication subsystem for wired communication over at least one ofthe power lines.

111. A circuit breaker as recited in clause 110 further comprising atleast one sensor to detect signals indicative of the at least one hotpower line; wherein the processor is further configured to send acommunication in response to determining that no power is detected.

While some of the present embodiments are described in terms of methods,a person of ordinary skill in the art will understand that presentembodiments are also directed to various apparatus such as processors,circuitry, and controllers including components for performing at leastsome of the aspects and features of the described methods, be it by wayof hardware components, software or any combination of the two, or inany other manner, as applicable.

In the Figures, as applicable, at least some or all of the illustratedsubsystems or blocks may include or be controlled by a processor, whichexecutes instructions stored in a memory or computer readable medium.Variations may be made to some example embodiments, which may includecombinations and sub-combinations of any of the above. The variousembodiments presented above are merely examples and are in no way meantto limit the scope of this disclosure.

Variations of the innovations described herein will be apparent topersons of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of the exampleembodiments, such variations being within the intended scope of thepresent disclosure. In particular, features from one or more of theabove-described embodiments may be selected to create alternativeembodiments comprised of a sub-combination of features, which may not beexplicitly described above. In addition, features from one or more ofthe above-described embodiments may be selected and combined to createalternative embodiments comprised of a combination of features which maynot be explicitly described above. Features suitable for suchcombinations and sub-combinations would be readily apparent to personsskilled in the art upon review of the present disclosure as a whole. Thesubject matter described herein intends to cover and embrace allsuitable changes in technology.

Certain adaptations and modifications of the described embodiments canbe made. Therefore, the above discussed embodiments are considered to beillustrative and not restrictive.

What is claimed is:
 1. A communication device, comprising: a firstcontact configured for electrical connection to a neutral power line,and a second contact configured for electrical connection to ground; aprocessor; and a communication subsystem configured for wiredcommunications over the neutral power line to the ground.
 2. Acommunication device as recited in claim 1, wherein the wiredcommunications comprise inserting a DC signal over the neutral line andmodulating the DC signal.
 3. A communication device as recited in claim1, wherein the wired communications comprise sending a RF signal overthe neutral line.
 4. A communication device as recited in claim 1,wherein the wired communications continue when a circuit breaker of abreaker panel opens a hot power line.
 5. A communication device asrecited in claim 1, wherein the wired communications bypass a circuitbreaker panel.
 6. A communication device as recited in claim 1, whereinthe communication device is a device comprising a plug for plugging intoa plug outlet.
 7. A communication device as recited in claim 1, whereinthe communication device is an electrical receptacle having a plugoutlet.
 8. A communication device as recited in claim 1, wherein thecommunication device is a circuit breaker panel.
 9. A communicationdevice, comprising: a first contact configured for electrical connectionto a first hot power line having a first power line phase, and a secondcontact configured for electrical connection to a second hot power linehaving a second power line phase different from the first power linephase; and a processor configured to bridge wired communications betweenthe first power line phase and the second power line phase.
 10. Acommunication device as recited in claim 9, wherein the communicationsof the first power line phase are between the first power line phase toa neutral phase and wherein the communications of the second power linephase are between the second power line phase to the neutral phase. 11.A communication device as recited in claim 9, further comprising aseparate power supply from the power lines, wherein the processor isconfigured to continue the wired communications using the separate powersupply when a circuit breaker of a circuit breaker panel opens one ormore of the hot power lines.
 12. A communication device as recited inclaim 9, wherein the communication device is a circuit breaker panel.13. A communication device as recited in claim 9, further comprising afirst communication subsystem configured for wired communications overthe first hot power line; and a second communication subsystemconfigured for wired communications over the second hot power line. 14.A communication device, comprising: a neutral contact for connection toa neutral power line; a ground contact for connection to ground; and acommunication subsystem for communicating over the neutral power line tothe ground.
 15. A circuit breaker for connection at least one powerline, comprising: a breaker for connection to a hot power line of the atleast on power line; a processor for controlling the breaker; and acommunication subsystem for wired communication over at least one of thepower lines.
 16. A circuit breaker as recited in claim 15 furthercomprising at least one sensor to detect signals indicative of the atleast one hot power line; wherein the processor is further configured tosend a communication in response to determining that no power isdetected.